Fractions and decimals are two different ways to represent the same thing: parts of a whole. Knowing how to convert between them is a crucial skill in math. This guide will show you how to easily turn fractions into decimals.
Understanding Fractions and Decimals
Before we dive into the conversion process, let's quickly review the basics.
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Fractions: Represent a part of a whole, expressed as a ratio of two numbers (numerator/denominator). For example, 1/2 represents one out of two equal parts.
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Decimals: Represent a part of a whole using a base-ten system. The digits to the right of the decimal point represent tenths, hundredths, thousandths, and so on. For example, 0.5 represents five tenths.
Method 1: Direct Division
The most straightforward method to convert a fraction to a decimal is through division.
Steps:
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Identify the numerator and denominator: In the fraction a/b, 'a' is the numerator and 'b' is the denominator.
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Divide the numerator by the denominator: Use long division or a calculator to perform this calculation. The result is your decimal equivalent.
Example:
Let's convert the fraction 3/4 into a decimal:
- Numerator = 3, Denominator = 4
- Divide 3 by 4: 3 ÷ 4 = 0.75
Therefore, 3/4 is equal to 0.75.
Method 2: Converting to an Equivalent Fraction with a Denominator of 10, 100, 1000, etc.
This method works best for certain fractions. If you can easily convert the denominator to a power of 10 (10, 100, 1000, etc.), the conversion to a decimal becomes very simple.
Steps:
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Find an equivalent fraction: Determine what number you need to multiply the denominator by to get a power of 10. Multiply both the numerator and the denominator by this number.
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Write as a decimal: The numerator of the equivalent fraction will be the digits to the right of the decimal point. The number of digits to the right of the decimal point corresponds to the number of zeros in the denominator of the equivalent fraction.
Example:
Let's convert the fraction 7/20 into a decimal:
- To get a power of 10, multiply the denominator (20) by 5 (20 x 5 = 100).
- Multiply both the numerator and denominator by 5: (7 x 5) / (20 x 5) = 35/100
- Write as a decimal: 35/100 = 0.35
Therefore, 7/20 is equal to 0.35.
Method 3: Using a Calculator
The easiest and quickest method is to use a calculator. Simply enter the numerator, then the division symbol (÷), followed by the denominator, and press the equals button (=).
Example:
To convert 5/8 to a decimal, enter 5 ÷ 8 = into your calculator. The result will be 0.625.
Dealing with Repeating Decimals
Some fractions, when converted to decimals, result in repeating decimals (e.g., 1/3 = 0.333...). You can represent these by placing a bar over the repeating digit(s). For instance, 0.333... is written as 0..
Practice Makes Perfect
The best way to master converting fractions to decimals is through practice. Try converting different fractions using the methods outlined above. With a little practice, you'll become proficient in this essential math skill.
