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The Curious Case of 1/998001: Missing Number & Math Guide

Originally published at malcolmlow.com . Quick Answer & Key Insight: Why Does 1/998001 Generate All 3-Digit Numbers? Yes, 1/998001 generates every 3-digit sequence.

  • Fraction 1/998001 generates all 3-digit numbers in sequence, skipping 998
  • Missing 998 results from carry-over effect of fractions n/1000 where n is 998, 999, 1000
  • Mathematical explanation via Taylor series expansion of 1/(1-x)^2 with x=10^-3

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