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Good Approximations

Solve quadratic equations and use continued fractions to find rational approximations to irrational numbers.

There's a Limit

Explore the continued fraction: 2+3/(2+3/(2+3/2+...)) What do you notice when successive terms are taken? What happens to the terms if the fraction goes on indefinitely?

Comparing Continued Fractions

Which of these continued fractions is bigger and why?

Not Continued Fractions

Age 14 to 18
Challenge Level

Why do this problem?

For experience of reasoning about the integer part of a number and working with fractions.

Possible approach

Challenge the students to invent their own problems of this type.

Key question

What is the integer part of $N$?

The NRICH Project aims to enrich the mathematical experiences of all learners. To support this aim, members of the NRICH team work in a wide range of capacities, including providing professional development for teachers wishing to embed rich mathematical tasks into everyday classroom practice.
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