Another name for a whole number along with fractions or decimals is real number. Real numbers encompass all the numbers that we can find on the number line. This includes whole numbers (like 0, 1, 2, 3, etc.), fractions (like 1/2, 3/4), and decimals (like 0.5, 2.75).
Real numbers are further divided into rational and irrational numbers. Rational numbers include whole numbers, fractions, and decimals that can be expressed as a ratio of two integers. Irrational numbers, on the other hand, cannot be expressed as exact fractions; their decimal representations are non-repeating and non-terminating (like the square root of 2 or pi).
Understanding the classification of numbers helps in various mathematical operations and concepts, making it easier to grasp topics like algebra, calculus, and more.