Chapter 1: Number systems and arithmetic
The number systems and the arithmetic on them — indices and surds, absolute value, and the accuracy to which an answer should be given.
The chapter problem
The error that cost a contract. A quotation was rounded at the wrong point and the final figure was out by more than the profit. You will follow the calculation, find where the rounding should have happened, and by the end of the chapter say how much precision a chain of calculations actually needs.
Where it is used: Quotations, measurements, financial calculations and any chained arithmetic.
Your turn to connect it: Where has a rounded number changed a decision for you or someone you know?
Sections
- 1.1 The number systems ℕ, ℤ, ℚ and ℝ — tier F · refs 3.1
- 1.2 Irrational numbers and surds — tier O · refs 3.1
- 1.3 Geometric construction of √2 and √3 — tier H · refs 3.1
- 1.4 Absolute value — tier O · refs 3.1
- 1.5 Indices and the rules of indices — tier F · refs 3.2
- 1.6 Solving problems with indices — tier O · refs 3.2
- 1.7 Scientific notation and accuracy — tier F · refs 3.1