Question

How many symbols are used in Roman numerals?
A. 7
B. 6
C. 9
D. 12

Answer 1

Hint: We write all the roman symbols that are used in forming the roman numerals. Count the total number of symbols and choose the correct options.
* Roman number system is a number system that has numerals based on roman system. The symbols used I, V, X, L, C, D and M standing respectively for 1, 5, 10, 50, 100, 500 and 1000.
* Rule of writing a number in Roman number system form are:
If a symbol appears after a larger or equal symbol, we add the symbol. Example: VIII is \[5 + 3 = 8\]
If a symbol appears before a larger symbol, we subtract the symbol. Example: IX is \[10 - 1 = 9\]

Complete step-by-step answer:
We define Roman numerals in simple terms and write the meaning or value of each notation or symbol of roman numeral system.
Roman numeral: A numeral in a system of notation that is completely based on the ancient roman system is called a roman numeral. General notations to be kept in mind for following ancient Roman numeral system are:
I - stands for 1
V- stands for 5
X- stands for 10
L- stands for 50
C- stands for 100
D- stands for 500
M- stands for 1000
Since there are total 7 Roman symbols i.e. I, V, X, L, C, D and M.
\[\therefore \]There are a total 7 symbols used in Roman numerals.

\[\therefore \]Option A is correct.

Note:
Many students get confused while counting the total number of symbols as they assume there is no symbol for 0 so, it must be O or 0 itself and write the total number of symbols as 8 which is wrong. Keep in mind that we don’t need a separate symbol for 0 as we are given the value of roman numeral symbols is always a product of 10, 100, and so on.