Decimal expansion to rational number

In summary, the given number $.334444\ldots$ can be expressed as the sum of a finite geometric series and an infinite geometric series. The finite geometric series is $0+33\times 10^{-2}$ and the infinite geometric series is $\sum\limits_{n=3}^{\infty}4\times 10^{-n}$. By combining these two series, we can represent the given number as a single infinite geometric series with a common ratio of $\frac{1}{10}$ and a starting term of $\frac{301}{1000}$.
  • #1
Dustinsfl
2,281
5
I am given the number $.334444\ldots$

So we have $0+33\times 10^{-2} + \sum\limits_{n=3}^{\infty}4\times 10^{-n}$

Is there a way to put this all together in one geometric series?
 
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  • #2
dwsmith said:
I am given the number $.334444\ldots$

So we have $0+33\times 10^{-2} + \sum\limits_{n=3}^{\infty}4\times 10^{-n}$

Is there a way to put this all together in one geometric series?

No, you sum the infinite geometric series, and add \(33/100\). Or sum:

\(\sum\limits_{n=1}^{\infty}4\times 10^{-n}=(4/10)(10/9)\)

and subtract \(11/100\)

CB
 
  • #3
dwsmith said:
I am given the number $.334444\ldots$

So we have $0+33\times 10^{-2} + \sum\limits_{n=3}^{\infty}4\times 10^{-n}$

Is there a way to put this all together in one geometric series?

$\displaystyle .33444...= \frac{1}{3} + \frac{1}{900} = \frac{301}{900}= \frac{1}{100}\ \frac{301}{9}= \frac{301}{1000}\ \sum_{n=0}^{\infty} 10^{-n}$

Kind regards

$\chi$ $\sigma$
 

FAQ: Decimal expansion to rational number

How do you convert a decimal expansion to a rational number?

To convert a decimal expansion to a rational number, you need to follow these steps:1. Identify the repeating pattern, if any, in the decimal expansion.2. Write the repeating pattern as a fraction.3. Count the number of digits in the repeating pattern and place it in the denominator.4. Subtract the non-repeating digits from the original decimal expansion and place it in the numerator.5. Simplify the fraction, if necessary.

What is a rational number?

A rational number is any number that can be expressed as a ratio of two integers, where the denominator is not equal to zero. This includes integers, fractions, and terminating or repeating decimals.

Can all decimal expansions be converted to rational numbers?

No, not all decimal expansions can be converted to rational numbers. Decimal expansions that are non-terminating, non-repeating (irrational numbers) cannot be converted to rational numbers.

How can you tell if a decimal expansion is rational or irrational?

A decimal expansion is rational if it either terminates or repeats in a pattern. If the decimal expansion does not follow a pattern and continues infinitely without repeating, it is irrational.

Why is it useful to convert a decimal expansion to a rational number?

Converting a decimal expansion to a rational number can make it easier to work with and compare numbers. Rational numbers can also be written in different forms, such as fractions or decimals, which can be useful in different mathematical operations. In addition, some calculations, such as finding the square root of a number, are easier to perform with rational numbers rather than irrational numbers.

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