Irrational number
What Irrational number means in Mathematics GCSE, as defined for AQA, Eduqas, Pearson Edexcel.
Definitions of Irrational number
Exam boards and our study guides word this term in slightly different ways. Learn the version your board uses.
Check what you remember
Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain Irrational number in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.
Reference: AQA
A real number that cannot be expressed as a fraction p/q of integers with q ≠ 0. Its decimal expansion neither terminates nor repeats.
A real number that cannot be expressed as a simple fraction. Its decimal expansion is non-terminating and non-recurring.
A number that cannot be written as a simple fraction; its decimal goes on forever without repeating.
A real number that cannot be expressed as p/q for integers p and q with q ≠ 0.
Topics that use Irrational number
- Sequences (AQA GCSE)
- Structure and calculation (AQA GCSE)
- Number (Eduqas GCSE)
- Number - Structure and calculation (Pearson Edexcel GCSE)
Related terms
Using Irrational number in the exam
Check the command word and mark scheme for your exact question. After comparing your explanation with the reference, use the term in an answer on the linked topic. This practice does not predict an exam mark.
Practise Mathematics questions
Create a free account to answer exam-style questions on this topic and get feedback on your answers.
A week of Premium from your first lesson · Then the free plan continues · No card, no charge