$0.4\overline{23}$ is equivalent to the fraction
Aptitude
Decimal Fraction
Difficulty: Medium
Choose an option
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A$\frac{94}{99}$
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B$\frac{49}{99}$
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C$\frac{491}{990}$
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D$\frac{419}{990}$
Answer
Correct Answer: $\frac{419}{990}$
Explanation
Concept & Formula
To convert a mixed recurring decimal to a vulgar fraction, subtract the non-repeating part from the entire number to determine the numerator. For the denominator, write as many $9$s as there are repeating digits, followed by as many $0$s as there are non-repeating digits after the decimal point.
$$ \text{Fraction} = \frac{\text{Complete Number} - \text{Non-repeating part}}{\text{9s (repeating count) } \text{0s (non-repeating count)}} $$
Step-by-Step Solution
Given the mixed recurring decimal: $0.4\overline{23}$
Identify the components after the decimal:
The complete sequence is $423$.
The non-repeating part is $4$.
The repeating part is $23$ (two digits long).
Calculate the Numerator:
Subtract the non-repeating part from the entire sequence.
$$ 423 - 4 = 419 $$
Calculate the Denominator:
We have two repeating digits ($2$ and $3$), so we use two $9$s.
We have one non-repeating digit ($4$), so we use one $0$.
This gives a denominator of $990$.
Form the final fraction:
$$ \frac{419}{990} $$
Exam Strategy & Shortcut
Analyze the denominator first. The decimal $0.4\overline{23}$ has two repeating digits and one non-repeating digit. The denominator MUST be $990$. This instantly eliminates options (a) and (b). Then, quickly do the numerator subtraction $423 - 4 = 419$ to select option (d).
Common Pitfall
A very common mistake is simply writing the entire number over $990$ (e.g., getting $\frac{423}{990}$ and simplifying incorrectly) or adding the non-repeating part instead of subtracting it. Always remember the rule: "Subtract the stagnant part from the whole".
Final Answer
Therefore, the correct answer is $\frac{419}{990}$.