Key learning points

1. A recurring decimal does not terminate.
2. By considering the infinite nature of recurring decimals, it is possible to create two equations.
3. These simultaneous equations can be combined to create a third valid equation.
4. This can be solved to find the fractional equivalent to the recurring decimal.
5. A calculator can help us investigate this conversion.

Keywords

• Recurring decimal - A recurring decimal is one that has an infinite number of digits after the decimal point.

• Irrational number - An irrational number is one that cannot be written in the form a/b where a and b are integers and b is not equal to 0.

• Terminating decimal - A terminating decimal is one that has a finite number of digits after the decimal point.

Common misconception