Before we consider the given number, let's recall the various types of numbers.
Rational Number: A number is a rational number if it can be written in the form ab, where a and b are both integers and b≠0.
Integer: A number is an integer if it is a positive or negative counting number (or zero). All integers are also rational numbers because any number can be written as a division by one, a1.
Whole Number: A number is a whole number if it is a non-negative counting number. All whole numbers are also integers and rational numbers.
Natural Number: A number is a natural number if it is a positive counting number. All natural numbers are also whole numbers, integers, and rational numbers.
Irrational Number: An irrational number is a number that cannot be written in the form of a rational number. These are recognized as being non-repeating, infinite decimals.
Now, let's try to categorize the given number using these definitions.
-5/12
This is a fraction with integers for the numerator and denominator so we can immediately identify it as a rational number. Additionally, because there are no common factors shared by the numerator and denominator, we cannot reduce it any further. Therefore, this number cannot be classified as anything other than a rational number.
