Classification of Numbers
Classification of Numbers
Classification of Numbers
Natural Numbers
Natural numbers are the simplest form of numbers used for counting. They start from 1
and go on infinitely: 1, 2, 3, and so on. These numbers do not include zero or any
negative numbers.
Whole Numbers
Whole numbers expand on natural numbers by including zero. Therefore, whole numbers
are 0, 1, 2, 3, and so forth. They still do not include any negative numbers.
Integers
Integers further broaden the scope by including negative numbers along with whole
numbers. Thus, integers consist of ..., -3, -2, -1, 0, 1, 2, 3, and continue infinitely in both
directions.
Rational Numbers
Rational numbers are numbers that can be expressed as a fraction, where both the
numerator and the denominator are integers, and the denominator is not zero. Examples
1 3
include , − , and 5. Rational numbers also encompass integers because any integer
2 4
5
can be written as a fraction with a denominator of 1 (e.g., 5 can be written as ).
1
Irrational Numbers
Irrational numbers are numbers that cannot be written as a simple fraction. Their decimal
expansions are non-repeating and non-terminating. Examples of irrational numbers
include the square root of 2 (√ 2) and pi ( π ).
Real Numbers
Together, rational and irrational numbers form the set of real numbers. Real numbers
include all the numbers that can be found on the number line, encompassing both
rational and irrational numbers.
Summary
In summary, the classification of numbers into natural numbers, whole numbers,
integers, rational numbers, and irrational numbers helps in organizing and understanding
the different types of numbers we encounter in mathematics. This foundational
knowledge is crucial for progressing in more advanced mathematical studies.