Difference between Fraction, Rational Number and Ratio:

📘 Difference between Fraction, Rational Number, and Ratio

In mathematics, fractions, rational numbers, and ratios are closely related concepts, but they are not the same. Each has a distinct meaning and use.

🔹 Fraction

A fraction represents a part of a whole or a part of a collection. It is written in the form
𝑎/𝑏 , 𝑏 ≠ 0.
where a is the numerator and b is the denominator.

Example:

3/5
means 3 parts out of 5 equal parts.

Key point:
Every fraction is a rational number, but not every rational number is used as a fraction in practical situations.
🔹 Rational Number

A rational number is any number that can be expressed in the form

𝑝/𝑞 , 𝑞 ≠ 0.
where p and q are integers.
Key point:
Rational numbers form a number system, while fractions are mainly used to represent parts of quantities.
🔹 Ratio

A ratio is a comparison between two or more quantities of the same kind. It shows how much of one quantity exists compared to another.

A ratio is written as:

𝑎 : 𝑏
✨ Conclusion

Fractions describe parts of a whole.

Rational numbers include all numbers that can be written as a fraction of integers.

Ratios compare quantities and show their relationship.

Understanding these differences helps in algebra, arithmetic, and real-life problem solving.