Difference between revisions of "Decimal"
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A '''decimal''', like a [[fraction]], is one way to express numbers less than 1. The main difference between a decimal and fraction is that a decimal is easier to utilize as it complements a whole number better. When a number is divided by a [[period]], anything to the right of the period is part of the decimal. This is illustrated in the following model;<blockquote>''(Whole Number)''.''(Decimal)''</blockquote> | A '''decimal''', like a [[fraction]], is one way to express numbers less than 1. The main difference between a decimal and fraction is that a decimal is easier to utilize as it complements a whole number better. When a number is divided by a [[period]], anything to the right of the period is part of the decimal. This is illustrated in the following model;<blockquote>''(Whole Number)''.''(Decimal)''</blockquote> | ||
| − | As we have a base ten system, the first number to the right of the period represents the given number (''n'') out of ten (<sup>''n''</sup>'''/'''<sub>10</sub>). | + | As we have a base ten system, the first number to the right of the period represents the given number (''n'') out of ten (<sup>''n''</sup>'''/'''<sub>10</sub>), known as tenths. The value of the each number can be ascertained by taking <sup>1</sup>/<sub>10</sub> out of the number to its left. |
Revision as of 21:28, January 4, 2009
A decimal, like a fraction, is one way to express numbers less than 1. The main difference between a decimal and fraction is that a decimal is easier to utilize as it complements a whole number better. When a number is divided by a period, anything to the right of the period is part of the decimal. This is illustrated in the following model;
(Whole Number).(Decimal)
As we have a base ten system, the first number to the right of the period represents the given number (n) out of ten (n/10), known as tenths. The value of the each number can be ascertained by taking 1/10 out of the number to its left.