Rational (disambiguation) facts for kids

The word rational means something that is based on reason or logic. If you make a rational decision, you are thinking clearly and using facts. But "rational" can also mean different things in various fields, like math, computers, or even music!

What Does Rational Mean in Math?

In mathematics, "rational" often refers to numbers or expressions that can be written in a specific way.

Rational Numbers: Fractions and More

A rational number is any number that you can write as a simple fraction. This means it can be shown as one whole number divided by another whole number. For example:

• 1/2 (one half) is a rational number.
• 3 (which can be written as 3/1) is a rational number.
• 0.75 (which is 3/4) is a rational number.
• -2 (which is -2/1) is also a rational number.

So, if you can express a number as a fraction where the top and bottom numbers are integers (whole numbers, positive or negative, but the bottom number can't be zero), then it's a rational number.

Rational Functions and Fractions

In algebra, you might hear about rational functions or rational fractions. These are like super-fractions!

• A rational function is a function that can be written as one polynomial divided by another polynomial. Think of polynomials as expressions with variables and numbers, like `x + 2` or `3x^2 - 5x + 1`.
• A rational fraction is similar, but it's an expression built using numbers and variables, combined with addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. They are basically fractions where the top and bottom parts are made of these kinds of expressions.

Rational in Technology and Business

The word "rational" has also been part of the names of different companies, especially in the world of computer software.

Rational Software

Rational Software was a company that created special tools for computer programmers. These tools helped people design, build, and test computer programs. Later, a very large technology company called IBM bought Rational Software. Now, its tools are part of IBM's software offerings.

Tenberry Software (Formerly Rational Systems)

There was another American software company called Rational Systems a long time ago. It later changed its name to Tenberry Software. This company also worked on different kinds of software before it eventually stopped operating.

Rational AG: Cooking Technology

Not all "Rational" companies are about computers! Rational AG is a German company that makes high-tech cooking equipment. They are famous for their large, professional food processors and ovens used in restaurants and big kitchens around the world.

Rational in Culture and Personality

The word "rational" also appears in other interesting areas, from music to how we understand people's personalities.

The Rationals: A Rock Band

The Rationals were an American rock and roll band. They were popular in the 1960s and were known for their energetic music.

RationaL: A Hip-Hop Artist

RationaL is the stage name for a Canadian hip-hop artist named Matt Brotzel. He uses this name for his music performances.

Rational Personality Type

In some ways of understanding personality, like the Keirsey Temperament Sorter, "Rational" is a type of personality. People classified as "Rational" are often seen as logical, independent thinkers who like to solve problems and understand how things work. They are usually curious and enjoy learning.

See also

In Spanish: Racional para niños

• Rationality
• Rationale (disambiguation)
• Rationalism (disambiguation)
• Rationalization (disambiguation)