What is an irrational number?
Rational numbers are integers that can be written as simple fractions in the form of p/q where q is not zero. Irrational numbers are real numbers that can not be written as a simple fraction. Irrational numbers as decimals neither terminate or repeat.
How can we use the concept?
- Estimating values of non-perfect squares and cubes
- Finding area and perimeters of circles and circular objects
- Auto manufacturers - turning circumference, tires, calibration of speedometers
- Pendulum clocks for accurate time keeping
- Trigonometric functions
- Physics
- Force Calculations
- Calculus
- Space travel
Identifying irrational numbers:
Irrational numbers - not perfect squares
4.58276… irrational
Pi is irrational - does not repeat, does not terminate
Identifying rational numbers.
7.84: rational, terminating decimal, can be written as a ratio
is a rational number because 16 is a perfect square. The square root of 16 is 4.