# Non-Terminating Decimal

Definition of Non-terminating Decimal:

While expressing a fraction in the decimal form, when we perform division we get some remainder. If the division process does not end i.e. we do not get the remainder equal to zero; then such decimal is known as non-terminating decimal.

Note:

In some cases, a digit or a block of digits repeats itself in the decimal part. Such decimals are called non-terminating repeating decimals or pure recurring decimals. These decimal numbers are represented by putting a bar on the repeated part.

Example of Non-terminating Decimal:

(a) 2.666... is a non-terminating repeating decimal and can be expressed as 2.6.

(b) 0.141414 ... is a non-terminating repeating decimal and can be expressed as 0.14.

Calculating Non Terminating Decimals:

Using long division method, we will observe the steps in calculating 5/3.

Therefore, 1.666... is a non-terminating repeating decimal and can be expressed as 1.6.

In some cases at least one of the digits after the decimal point is not repeated and some digit/digits are repeated, such decimals are called mixed recurring decimals.

Examples of mixed recurring decimals are:

(a) 3.1444... = 3.14

(b) 8.12333... = 8.123

(c) 7.3656565... = 7.365

Solved examples on non-terminating decimal:

Find the decimal representation of 16/45.

Solution:

Using long division method, we get

Therefore, 0.3555... = 0.35 and is a mixed recurring decimal.

Related Concept