What are rational numbers?

Rational numbers are numbers that can be written as a RATIO of two integers. In this lesson, we look at various examples of rational numbers.

First, we see that ALL fractions and whole numbers are obviously rational numbers. What about decimals?

We write various decimals as fractions and see that they, also, are rational. I also show one example of a non-ending repeating decimal. (There are more in 2nd part of this lesson.)

Lastly in the 1st video, we take a quick look at negative fractions. I show how they also are rational numbers, and how to simplify them.

In the 2nd part of the lesson on RATIONAL NUMBERS, we first practice plotting fractions and decimals on a number line (including negative ones).

Then, I show how to convert fractions into decimals — using long division. Sometimes the decimal ends, and sometimes we get an unending repeating decimal.

See also

Math Mammoth Rational Numbers — a short workbook where you can find worksheets to match this lesson.

Add & subtract negative fractions and decimals — video lesson

Math Mammoth Grade 7 curriculum (pre-algebra)

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