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Class 9 Mathematics Chapter 1 Number Systems — Formulas & Key Points

CBSE Class 9 Mathematics Chapter 1 Number Systems is the gateway to all higher mathematics — algebra, trigonometry, calculus, and beyond. This chapter introduces you to the real number system: natural numbers, whole numbers, integers, rational numbers (fractions and their decimal forms), and irrational numbers (like √2, π). You learn how to distinguish these sets using decimal expansions, perform operations on them, locate them on the number line using geometric constructions, and manipulate expressions using the laws of exponents for rational powers. This formula sheet consolidates every identity, rule, and technique from the 2024–25 NCERT textbook into one reference page, complete with worked examples.

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Key takeaways

  • CBSE Class 9 Mathematics Chapter 1 Number Systems contains 12 core formulas: 4 square root identities, 5 laws of exponents for rational powers, and 3 rationalization techniques.
  • Every rational number has either a terminating or a non-terminating recurring decimal expansion; every irrational number has a non-terminating non-recurring expansion.
  • The laws of exponents — product, quotient, power-of-a-power, product-of-powers, and negative exponent — apply to all positive real bases with rational exponents.
  • Rationalizing the denominator uses conjugates: multiply (√a + √b) by (√a − √b) to eliminate radicals via the identity (√a + √b)(√a − √b) = a − b.
  • The NCERT textbook for CBSE Class 9 Mathematics Chapter 1 Number Systems provides 4 exercises (1.1 to 1.4) totaling 32 problems; mastering these is essential for scoring full marks.
  • Real numbers = rationals ∪ irrationals; they correspond one-to-one with points on the number line, a fact proven by Dedekind and Cantor in the 1870s.
  • Square roots of non-perfect-square integers (√2, √3, √5, √7) are always irrational; this was first proven by the Pythagoreans around 400 BCE.

Classification of Numbers in CBSE Class 9 Mathematics Chapter 1

Understanding the hierarchy of number sets is the first step in CBSE Class 9 Mathematics Chapter 1 Number Systems. Natural numbers (N) are the counting numbers: {1, 2, 3, 4, …}. Whole numbers (W) include natural numbers plus zero: {0, 1, 2, 3, …}. Integers (Z) extend whole numbers to include negatives: {…, −3, −2, −1, 0, 1, 2, 3, …}. Rational numbers (Q) are numbers expressible as p/q where p and q are integers and q ≠ 0. This includes all integers (e.g., 5 = 5/1), finite decimals (0.75 = 3/4), and repeating decimals (0.333… = 1/3). Irrational numbers cannot be expressed as p/q; their decimal expansions are non-terminating and non-recurring. Examples include √2, √3, π, and e. Real numbers (R) are the union of all rationals and irrationals, filling the entire number line with no gaps. The 2024–25 NCERT textbook emphasizes this taxonomy in Exercise 1.1, where you classify given numbers into these sets. The CBSE marking scheme typically awards 1 mark per classification question, so precision matters.
  • Natural numbers (N): {1, 2, 3, 4, …}
  • Whole numbers (W): {0, 1, 2, 3, …}
  • Integers (Z): {…, −2, −1, 0, 1, 2, …}
  • Rational numbers (Q): p/q form, terminating or recurring decimals
  • Irrational numbers: non-terminating non-recurring decimals (√2, π)
  • Real numbers (R): rationals ∪ irrationals

Decimal Expansion Rules for Rationals and Irrationals

The decimal expansion test is central to CBSE Class 9 Mathematics Chapter 1 Number Systems and appears in nearly every board exam. A rational number p/q (in lowest terms) has a terminating decimal if and only if the prime factorization of q contains only 2s and 5s. If q has any prime factor other than 2 or 5, the decimal is non-terminating recurring. For example, 7/8 = 0.875 terminates because 8 = 2³. But 10/3 = 3.333… recurs because 3 is prime and not 2 or 5. The length of the recurring block in 1/7 = 0.142857… is 6 digits, which divides 7−1 = 6 (a result from number theory). Irrational numbers have non-terminating non-recurring expansions: π = 3.141592653589793… continues forever with no repeating pattern. This distinction is tested in Exercise 1.3 of the NCERT textbook, where you must determine without division whether a given fraction will terminate or recur. The CBSE Class 9 final exam typically carries 2–3 marks for this concept, often as a 'state with reason' type question.

Square Root Identities (Four Core Formulas)

CBSE Class 9 Mathematics Chapter 1 Number Systems introduces four square root identities used throughout algebra and trigonometry. First, the product identity: √a · √b = √(ab) for a, b ≥ 0. For instance, √8 · √2 = √16 = 4. Second, the quotient identity: √a / √b = √(a/b) for a ≥ 0 and b > 0. Example: √18 / √2 = √9 = 3. Third, the square of a sum: (√a + √b)² = a + 2√(ab) + b. This is the binomial formula applied to roots. Fourth, the difference of squares: (√a + √b)(√a − √b) = a − b. This identity is critical for rationalizing denominators. The NCERT textbook devotes Exercise 1.5 to these manipulations, with problems requiring you to simplify expressions like (√5 + √3)(√5 − √3) = 5 − 3 = 2. The CBSE marking scheme awards full credit only if you show intermediate steps, not just the final answer. These four identities also underpin the rationalization process, which is tested in nearly every Class 9 school exam.
  • √a · √b = √(ab) — product of square roots equals square root of product
  • √a / √b = √(a/b) — quotient of square roots equals square root of quotient
  • (√a + √b)² = a + 2√(ab) + b — expansion of squared sum
  • (√a + √b)(√a − √b) = a − b — difference of squares, key for rationalization

Laws of Exponents for Rational Powers

In CBSE Class 9 Mathematics Chapter 1 Number Systems, the laws of exponents extend from integer exponents (covered in Class 8) to rational exponents. For a > 0 and p, q ∈ Q (rational numbers), five laws govern all operations. Law 1 (Product): a^p · a^q = a^(p+q). Example: 2^(2/3) · 2^(1/3) = 2^(3/3) = 2¹ = 2. Law 2 (Quotient): a^p / a^q = a^(p−q). Example: 5^(1/2) / 5^(1/4) = 5^(1/2 − 1/4) = 5^(1/4). Law 3 (Power of a power): (a^p)^q = a^(pq). Example: (3^(1/2))⁴ = 3^(1/2 × 4) = 3² = 9. Law 4 (Product of powers): a^p · b^p = (ab)^p. Example: 4^(1/3) · 9^(1/3) = (4 × 9)^(1/3) = 36^(1/3). Law 5 (Negative exponent): a^(−p) = 1/a^p. Example: 2^(−1/2) = 1/√2. Exercise 1.6 of the 2024–25 NCERT textbook contains 15 problems on these laws, and the CBSE Class 9 final paper typically includes a 3-mark question requiring you to simplify a complex expression using two or more laws in sequence.
  • a^p · a^q = a^(p+q) — when multiplying same base, add exponents
  • a^p / a^q = a^(p−q) — when dividing same base, subtract exponents
  • (a^p)^q = a^(pq) — power of a power, multiply exponents
  • a^p · b^p = (ab)^p — product of powers with same exponent
  • a^(−p) = 1/a^p — negative exponent means reciprocal

Rationalization of Denominators (Three Techniques)

Rationalizing the denominator is a standard procedure in CBSE Class 9 Mathematics Chapter 1 Number Systems tested in every school exam. The goal is to rewrite a fraction so the denominator contains no radicals. Technique 1: For 1/√a, multiply numerator and denominator by √a to get √a/a. Example: 1/√5 = √5/5. Technique 2: For 1/(√a + √b), multiply by the conjugate (√a − √b)/(√a − √b) to obtain (√a − √b)/(a − b) using the identity (√a + √b)(√a − √b) = a − b. Example: 1/(√3 + √2) = (√3 − √2)/[(√3)² − (√2)²] = (√3 − √2)/(3 − 2) = √3 − √2. Technique 3: For 1/(√a − √b), multiply by (√a + √b)/(√a + √b) to get (√a + √b)/(a − b). The NCERT textbook presents these in Exercise 1.5, problems 4–6. The CBSE marking scheme deducts marks if you leave a radical in the denominator or fail to simplify the final expression. Rationalization also helps in locating numbers on the number line, since √2/2 is easier to plot than 1/√2.

Converting Recurring Decimals to p/q Form

A recurring decimal can always be expressed as a fraction p/q, proving it is rational. CBSE Class 9 Mathematics Chapter 1 Number Systems teaches a systematic method. Let x equal the recurring decimal. Multiply x by 10^n where n is the number of digits in the repeating block. Subtract the original x from this new equation to eliminate the repeating part. Solve for x. Example: Convert 0.7̄ (0.7777…) to a fraction. Let x = 0.7777…. Multiply by 10: 10x = 7.7777…. Subtract: 10x − x = 7.7777… − 0.7777… gives 9x = 7, so x = 7/9. For mixed cases like 0.235̄ (0.235353…), note that the block '35' repeats but '2' does not. Multiply by 10 to shift the non-repeating part: 10x = 2.3535…. Now let y = 2.3535…; multiply by 100: 100y = 235.3535…. Subtract: 99y = 233, y = 233/99, so x = 233/990. Exercise 1.3 (Q5–7) drills this technique, and the CBSE board awards 2–3 marks for the complete derivation with justification.

Locating Irrational Numbers on the Number Line

CBSE Class 9 Mathematics Chapter 1 Number Systems requires you to geometrically locate irrational square roots on the number line using compass and straightedge. To locate √2: Construct a unit square (side 1) at the origin. By Pythagorean theorem, the diagonal has length √(1² + 1²) = √2. Use a compass with center at zero and radius equal to the diagonal; mark the arc intersecting the positive number line. That point is √2 ≈ 1.414. To locate √3: At the point √2, erect a perpendicular of length 1. The hypotenuse of this new right triangle has length √(2 + 1) = √3. Repeat this spiral construction to locate √4 = 2, √5, √6, and so on. The NCERT textbook illustrates this 'Spiral of Theodorus' construction in Section 1.4, and Exercise 1.2 (Q6) asks you to reproduce it. CBSE practical exams (internal assessment) sometimes include a 2-mark construction question where you must draw this spiral accurately. This technique visually proves that irrationals occupy specific, well-defined positions on the number line, bridging geometry and number theory.
  • Construct a unit square; diagonal = √2 by Pythagorean theorem
  • Use compass with radius √2 to mark point on number line
  • Erect perpendicular of length 1 at √2; new hypotenuse = √3
  • Continue spiraling to locate √4, √5, √6, … (Spiral of Theodorus)
  • Each step uses Pythagorean theorem: √(n−1) + 1 gives hypotenuse √n

Operations on Real Numbers and Closure Properties

In CBSE Class 9 Mathematics Chapter 1 Number Systems, you learn which sets are 'closed' under which operations. Natural numbers are closed under addition and multiplication (sum and product of naturals are natural) but not subtraction (3 − 5 = −2 is not natural) or division (5 ÷ 2 = 2.5 is not natural). Integers are closed under addition, subtraction, and multiplication but not division (7 ÷ 2 is not an integer). Rational numbers are closed under all four operations (except division by zero). Real numbers are also closed under all four operations (except division by zero). However, irrational numbers are NOT closed: √2 + (−√2) = 0 is rational, but √2 + √3 is irrational; √2 × √2 = 2 is rational, but √2 × √3 = √6 is irrational. The NCERT textbook presents these facts in Section 1.5, and Exercise 1.4 tests your understanding with true/false and reasoning questions. The CBSE marking scheme awards 1 mark for stating closure and 1 mark for a counterexample or proof, so always provide justification.

Worked Example 1: Simplifying Expressions with Exponents

Problem: Simplify [(3^(−1/2))² × (9^(1/2))] / (3^(1/2)). Step 1: Apply power-of-a-power law to the first term: (3^(−1/2))² = 3^(−1/2 × 2) = 3^(−1). Step 2: Recognize that 9 = 3², so 9^(1/2) = (3²)^(1/2) = 3^(2 × 1/2) = 3¹ = 3. Step 3: Substitute into the expression: (3^(−1) × 3) / 3^(1/2). Step 4: Simplify the numerator using the product law: 3^(−1) × 3¹ = 3^(−1 + 1) = 3⁰ = 1. Step 5: Now the expression is 1 / 3^(1/2) = 3^(−1/2) or 1/√3. Step 6: Rationalize: (1/√3) × (√3/√3) = √3/3. Final answer: √3/3. This problem type appears in CBSE Class 9 Mathematics Chapter 1 Number Systems Exercise 1.6, worth 3 marks. Each algebraic step must be shown; skipping steps loses marks even if the final answer is correct.

Worked Example 2: Proving √3 is Irrational

Problem: Prove that √3 is irrational. Proof by contradiction: Assume √3 is rational. Then √3 = p/q where p, q are integers with no common factors (lowest terms) and q ≠ 0. Square both sides: 3 = p²/q², hence 3q² = p². This means p² is divisible by 3, so p is divisible by 3 (since 3 is prime). Write p = 3m for some integer m. Substitute into 3q² = p²: 3q² = (3m)² = 9m², so q² = 3m². This means q² is divisible by 3, hence q is divisible by 3. But now both p and q are divisible by 3, contradicting our assumption that p/q is in lowest terms. Therefore, our assumption was wrong, and √3 cannot be rational; it is irrational. This proof mirrors the proof for √2 taught in CBSE Class 9 Mathematics Chapter 1 Number Systems. The NCERT textbook walks through the √2 proof in Section 1.5; you are expected to replicate the logic for √3, √5, and other non-perfect squares. The CBSE board typically sets a 3-mark 'prove that' question on this in the annual exam, and full marks require the contradiction setup, algebraic steps, and conclusion.
  • Assume √3 = p/q in lowest terms
  • Square: 3q² = p², so p² divisible by 3 ⇒ p divisible by 3
  • Write p = 3m; substitute: 3q² = 9m² ⇒ q² = 3m²
  • Thus q² divisible by 3 ⇒ q divisible by 3
  • Both p and q divisible by 3 contradicts lowest terms
  • Conclusion: √3 is irrational

Worked Example 3: Finding Rational Numbers Between Two Given Numbers

Problem: Find three rational numbers between 4 and 5. Method 1 (Decimal): Write 4 = 4.0 and 5 = 5.0. Choose decimals: 4.2, 4.5, 4.8. Convert to fractions: 4.2 = 42/10 = 21/5, 4.5 = 9/2, 4.8 = 24/5. Method 2 (Common Denominator): Write 4 = 16/4 and 5 = 20/4. Then 17/4, 18/4, 19/4 lie between them. Simplify: 17/4 = 4.25, 18/4 = 4.5, 19/4 = 4.75. Method 3 (Averaging): Take the midpoint of 4 and 5: (4 + 5)/2 = 4.5. Take midpoint of 4 and 4.5: (4 + 4.5)/2 = 4.25. Take midpoint of 4.5 and 5: (4.5 + 5)/2 = 4.75. All three methods are valid. CBSE Class 9 Mathematics Chapter 1 Number Systems Exercise 1.1 (Q5) asks for this, awarding 2 marks. The key insight is that between any two rationals lie infinitely many rationals (density property), so you can generate as many as needed. This property does NOT hold for integers — there is no integer strictly between 4 and 5 — which highlights why rationals are a richer number system.

Common Mistakes Students Make in CBSE Class 9 Mathematics Chapter 1

Students often confuse the definitions of rational and irrational. Error 1: Claiming that 22/7 = π. In fact, 22/7 is rational (it is a fraction) while π is irrational; they are merely approximately equal (22/7 ≈ 3.142857…, π ≈ 3.141592…). Error 2: Believing that the sum of two irrationals is always irrational. Counterexample: √2 + (−√2) = 0, which is rational. Error 3: Incorrectly applying exponent laws when bases differ. Students write 2³ × 3² = 6^5, which is wrong. The correct statement is 2³ × 3³ = (2×3)³ = 6³ (product-of-powers law requires identical exponents). Error 4: Forgetting to rationalize the denominator in final answers. The CBSE marking scheme explicitly deducts marks if you leave 1/√2 instead of simplifying to √2/2. Error 5: Losing track of negative signs in exponent subtraction. For example, 5^(1/2) / 5^(−1/2) = 5^(1/2 − (−1/2)) = 5^(1/2 + 1/2) = 5¹ = 5, not 5^0. The NCERT textbook for CBSE Class 9 Mathematics Chapter 1 Number Systems includes these pitfalls in the 'Check Your Progress' boxes after each section. Reviewing these before exams prevents careless errors that cost marks.
  • 22/7 is rational, π is irrational; they are not equal, only approximately equal
  • Sum of two irrationals can be rational (e.g., √2 + (−√2) = 0)
  • Product law a^p · b^p = (ab)^p requires same exponent, not same base
  • Always rationalize denominators in final answers to avoid mark deduction
  • When subtracting exponents, remember a^p / a^(−q) = a^(p − (−q)) = a^(p+q)

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Exam Strategy for CBSE Class 9 Mathematics Chapter 1 Number Systems

CBSE Class 9 Mathematics Chapter 1 Number Systems typically contributes 6–8 marks in the final exam: 2 one-mark questions (classify a number, state if a decimal terminates), 2 two-mark questions (rationalize a denominator, convert a recurring decimal to p/q), and 1 three-mark question (prove √n is irrational, simplify a multi-step exponent expression). Time allocation: Spend no more than 8 minutes total on this chapter's questions, leaving time for geometry and statistics, which carry more weight. Memorize the five exponent laws and four square root identities on a single flashcard; they reappear in every chapter (polynomials, quadratic equations, trigonometry). Practice Exercise 1.5 (rationalization) and 1.6 (exponents) under timed conditions — these are the highest-yield exercises. In the exam, always show intermediate steps. The CBSE marking scheme awards partial credit for method even if the final answer is wrong. If a question says 'simplify,' your answer must have no radicals in the denominator and no negative exponents. If it says 'express as p/q,' your final answer must be a single fraction in lowest terms. Write units and terms clearly; marks are deducted for ambiguous notation like √2/2 written as √2/2 (which some examiners misread as √(2/2)). Finally, if you finish early, double-check rationalization problems by multiplying back — does (√3 − √2) × (√3 + √2) really give you 1? Verification catches sign errors and earns you full marks.

Frequently asked questions

How many marks does CBSE Class 9 Mathematics Chapter 1 Number Systems carry in the final exam?+
CBSE Class 9 Mathematics Chapter 1 Number Systems typically carries 6–8 marks in the annual exam. This includes one-mark objective questions (classify numbers, identify decimal type), two-mark short-answer questions (rationalize denominators, convert recurring decimals), and one three-mark long-answer question (prove irrationality, simplify exponent expressions). Internal assessments and periodic tests allocate similar weightage.
What is the fastest way to check if a fraction will have a terminating or recurring decimal?+
Write the fraction p/q in lowest terms. Factor the denominator q into primes. If q contains only powers of 2 and 5 (e.g., 8 = 2³, 25 = 5², 40 = 2³×5), the decimal terminates. If q has any other prime factor (3, 7, 11, etc.), the decimal recurs. Example: 7/40 terminates (40 = 2³×5), but 7/12 recurs (12 = 2²×3, and 3 is present). This rule is from CBSE Class 9 Mathematics Chapter 1 Number Systems Section 1.3.
Why do we rationalize denominators instead of leaving them with square roots?+
Rationalizing the denominator makes arithmetic easier and aligns with CBSE board conventions. For example, 1/√2 and √2/2 are equal, but √2/2 can be directly located on a number line and added to other fractions without converting everything to decimals. The CBSE marking scheme deducts marks if you leave radicals in the denominator, so it is a required final step in CBSE Class 9 Mathematics Chapter 1 Number Systems.
Is 0.999… (repeating) equal to 1, and is it rational or irrational?+
Yes, 0.999… = 1 exactly. Proof: Let x = 0.999…. Then 10x = 9.999…. Subtracting: 10x − x = 9.999… − 0.999… gives 9x = 9, so x = 1. Since it equals 1, it is rational (1 = 1/1). This is a famous result that surprises many students but is rigorously proven using the recurring-decimal conversion method taught in CBSE Class 9 Mathematics Chapter 1 Number Systems.
Can the sum of two irrational numbers ever be rational?+
Yes. Example: √2 + (−√2) = 0, which is rational. Another example: (2 + √3) + (2 − √3) = 4, rational. The key insight from CBSE Class 9 Mathematics Chapter 1 Number Systems is that irrational numbers are NOT closed under addition or multiplication. You must evaluate each case individually; there is no blanket rule that irrational ± irrational = irrational.
How do I know if √n is rational or irrational for a given positive integer n?+
If n is a perfect square (1, 4, 9, 16, 25, …), then √n is rational (an integer, in fact). If n is not a perfect square (2, 3, 5, 6, 7, 8, 10, …), then √n is irrational. This is proven by contradiction (the method used for √2 in CBSE Class 9 Mathematics Chapter 1 Number Systems) and generalizes to all non-perfect-square integers.
What does a^(p/q) mean when p and q are integers and q > 0?+
a^(p/q) means the q-th root of a raised to the power p: a^(p/q) = (ⁿ√a)^p or equivalently ⁿ√(a^p), where n = q. For example, 8^(2/3) = (∛8)² = 2² = 4 or ∛(8²) = ∛64 = 4. Both interpretations give the same result. This definition extends the laws of exponents to rational exponents, as taught in CBSE Class 9 Mathematics Chapter 1 Number Systems Section 1.6.
Will my child lose marks if they simplify (2^(1/2))² to 2^(1/2 × 2) = 2¹ = 2 without writing intermediate steps?+
Possibly. CBSE marking schemes award marks for showing the power-of-a-power law explicitly. Write: (2^(1/2))² = 2^(1/2 × 2) [applying (a^p)^q = a^(pq)] = 2^1 = 2. This takes one extra line but ensures full credit. Examiners deduct partial marks for 'unjustified leaps,' especially in 3-mark questions from CBSE Class 9 Mathematics Chapter 1 Number Systems.
How many rational numbers exist between 0 and 1?+
Infinitely many. You can always find another rational between any two rationals by averaging them: (a + b)/2. For example, between 0 and 1 lie 1/2, 1/3, 1/4, 2/3, 3/4, and so on forever. This 'density' property of rationals is a key concept in CBSE Class 9 Mathematics Chapter 1 Number Systems and contrasts with integers, where no integer lies strictly between 0 and 1.
My child's school uses a different textbook (RS Aggarwal, RD Sharma). Will they be behind on CBSE Class 9 Mathematics Chapter 1 Number Systems?+
No. All CBSE-affiliated schools must follow the NCERT curriculum for Classes 9 and 10, even if they use supplementary books for extra problems. RS Aggarwal and RD Sharma provide additional practice, but the theory, definitions, and formulas are identical to NCERT. The CBSE board exam sets questions based exclusively on NCERT content. If your child masters NCERT Exercises 1.1 through 1.6 for CBSE Class 9 Mathematics Chapter 1 Number Systems, they are fully prepared.
What is the spiral of Theodorus, and do I need to draw it in the CBSE exam?+
The Spiral of Theodorus is a geometric construction that locates √2, √3, √4, √5, … on the number line by repeatedly drawing right triangles with unit legs. NCERT Class 9 Mathematics Chapter 1 Number Systems illustrates it in Section 1.4. While not typically asked in the theory paper, it may appear in the internal practical exam or project work for 10 marks. You should know how to construct √2 and √3 using compass and straightedge.
Is there a shortcut to convert 0.235̄ (recurring '35') to a fraction without long algebra?+
The standard method is the most reliable: Let x = 0.235353…. Multiply by 10: 10x = 2.35353…. Multiply by 1000: 1000x = 235.35353…. Subtract 10x from 1000x: 990x = 233, so x = 233/990. There is no 'shortcut' formula; you must adjust the powers of 10 based on how many digits repeat. This is tested directly in CBSE Class 9 Mathematics Chapter 1 Number Systems Exercise 1.3, and full marks require showing the algebra.

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