When the repeating decimal 0.090909... is written as a fraction in simplest form, what is that fraction?

Difficulty: Medium

Correct Answer: 1/11

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
This question tests your understanding of how to convert a repeating decimal into an exact fraction. Repeating decimals often appear in algebra and number system problems, and knowing how to handle them shows deeper conceptual understanding.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Repeating decimal: 0.090909..., where 09 repeats indefinitely.
  • We must express this as a fraction in simplest form.
  • The dots indicate that the pattern 09 continues without end.


Concept / Approach:
To convert a repeating decimal into a fraction, we use an algebraic method. We denote the decimal by a variable, multiply by a suitable power of 10 so that the repeating part lines up, and then subtract to eliminate the repetition.


Step-by-Step Solution:

Step 1: Let x = 0.090909..., with 09 repeating.Step 2: Since the repeating block has two digits, multiply both sides by 100: 100x = 9.090909...Step 3: Now subtract the original x from this new equation: 100x - x = 9.090909... - 0.090909....Step 4: On the right-hand side, the repeating parts cancel, leaving 9.Step 5: So 99x = 9, which implies x = 9/99.Step 6: Simplify 9/99 by dividing numerator and denominator by 9 to get 1/11.


Verification / Alternative check:
We know that 1/11 is 0.090909..., so converting back to a decimal immediately confirms that our fraction form is correct.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:
1/33 equals approximately 0.030303..., which has a different repeating block. 2/33 equals about 0.060606..., also incorrect. 6/11 equals about 0.545454..., which is much larger and contains 54 as the repeating pair, not 09.


Common Pitfalls:
A common error is misidentifying the length of the repeating block or multiplying by 10 instead of 100 in this case. Another mistake is simplifying 9/99 incorrectly or not simplifying it at all, forgetting to reduce the fraction to lowest terms.


Final Answer:
The repeating decimal 0.090909... is equal to the fraction 1/11.

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