Can a rational number be an integer?

Yes, a rational number can be an integer.

Rational numbers are numbers that can be expressed as a fraction p/q, where p and q are integers and q is not zero. Integers are whole numbers (positive, negative, or zero).

Since any integer 'n' can be written as n/1, where both 'n' and 1 are integers and 1 is not zero, it fits the definition of a rational number.

Here's a breakdown:

• Definition of Rational Numbers: A number is rational if it can be written in the form p/q, where p and q are integers, and q ≠ 0.
• Definition of Integers: Integers are whole numbers (..., -2, -1, 0, 1, 2, ...).
• Relationship: Every integer can be expressed as a fraction with a denominator of 1. For example, 5 can be written as 5/1, -3 can be written as -3/1, and 0 can be written as 0/1.

Therefore, all integers are also rational numbers. However, not all rational numbers are integers (e.g., 1/2, 3/4, -2/5).

In summary, while integers are a subset of rational numbers, the reverse is not always true.