What is Numbers
The numbers are symbols or words used to represent quantities or values. They play a fundamental role in various areas, such as mathematics, science, economics and many others. Numbers can be classified into different categories, such as natural, integer, rational, irrational, real and complex numbers.
Natural Numbers
Natural numbers are those that are used to count objects or represent whole quantities. They include the numbers 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and so on. Natural numbers are used in basic operations such as addition, subtraction, multiplication and division.
Whole numbers
Whole numbers include all natural numbers, as well as their negative opposites. They are represented by the numbers ...-3, -2, -1, 0, 1, 2, 3... Whole numbers are used in situations involving gains and losses, such as in accounting and finance.
Rational Numbers
Rational numbers are those that can be expressed as a fraction, where the numerator and denominator are whole numbers. For example, 1/2, 3/4, 5/6 are all rational numbers. Rational numbers are used in situations involving dividing quantities into equal parts.
Irrational numbers
Irrational numbers are those that cannot be expressed as a fraction of two whole numbers. They have an infinite and non-periodic decimal representation. Examples of irrational numbers include π (pi) and √2 (square root of 2). Irrational numbers are used in geometry and advanced calculations.
Real Numbers
Real numbers include all rational and irrational numbers. They represent all the points on a continuous number line. Real numbers are used in situations involving continuous measurements, such as time, distance and temperature.
Complex Numbers
Complex numbers are an extension of real numbers, which include a real part and an imaginary part. They are represented in the form a + bi, where "a" is the real part and "bi" is the imaginary part. Complex numbers are used in advanced mathematics and engineering.
Conclusion
Numbers play a crucial role in various areas of knowledge and are essential for understanding and solving quantitative problems. Understanding the different types of numbers and their properties is fundamental to developing mathematical and scientific skills. We hope this glossary on what numbers are has been useful and enlightening.
