What is the definition of a rational number?

What is the definition of a rational number?

• A. A number that cannot be made by dividing two integers
• B. A number that can be made by dividing two integers
• C. A number with an infinite number of decimal places
• D. A number that is not an integer

Answer: (B)

A rational number is defined as a number that can be expressed in the form of a fraction where both the numerator (the top number) and the denominator (the bottom number) are integers, and the denominator is not zero. This definition encompasses integers, finite decimals, and repeating decimals since any integer can be written as itself divided by one, and finite or repeating decimals can also be converted into fractions. The correct choice emphasizes that rational numbers arise from dividing two integers, thus capturing the essence of what makes a number rational. This definition is fundamental in mathematics, as it lays the groundwork for understanding number classifications and operations involving fractions, whole numbers, and decimals.

A rational number is defined as a number that can be expressed in the form of a fraction where both the numerator (the top number) and the denominator (the bottom number) are integers, and the denominator is not zero. This definition encompasses integers, finite decimals, and repeating decimals since any integer can be written as itself divided by one, and finite or repeating decimals can also be converted into fractions.

The correct choice emphasizes that rational numbers arise from dividing two integers, thus capturing the essence of what makes a number rational. This definition is fundamental in mathematics, as it lays the groundwork for understanding number classifications and operations involving fractions, whole numbers, and decimals.