4th Class Mathematics Roman Numerals Introduction

    Introduction

The numerals, we use is commonly known as hindu -Arabic Numerals. 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5,6, 7, 8, 9 _ _ _ _ etc. are example of hindu-Arabic numerals. In ancient time Romans developed a system of numerations (numbering) which is known as Roman Numerals. I, II, III, IV, V, VI, VII, VIII, IX, _ _ _  etc. are example of Roman Numerals.  

Roman numerals are formed by using the following symbols:  

Note the following points with reference to the Roman Numerals: 

• In the Roman Numerals there is no separate notation for zero.
• Big numerals are obtained by adding smaller numerals.
• 1 = I, II = 1 + 1 = 2, III = 1 + 1 + 1 = 3, 10 + 10 = 20  and so on.
• If a big numeral is followed by a small numeral then they are added to get the resulting numeral, e.g.
• VI = 5 + 1 = 6 , XXIII = 10 + 10 +1 +1 +1 = 23
• If a small numeral is followed by a big numeral then the smaller numeral is subtracted to get the resulting numeral.

e.g. IV = 5 - 1 = 4, IX = X - 1 = 9,  XIX = 10 + (10 -1) =10 + 9 =19 .

• All numerals up to 39 can be expressed by the symbol I, V and X only.  

See the following table: