Convert a Number into Decimal

Converting a number into a decimal depends on the type of number. Here we see how to convert different types of numbers into decimals with detailed examples.

1. Converting a Whole Number into a Decimal

Whole numbers are already decimals, but they are written without the decimal point. To convert a whole number into a decimal, we simply add a decimal point followed by zeros if needed.

Example:

  • Number: 5
  • Decimal Form: 5.0

Here, “5” is a whole number. When converted into a decimal, it is written as “5.0.” The “.0” indicates that there are no fractional parts.

2. Converting a Fraction into a Decimal

To convert a fraction into a decimal, we divide the numerator (top number) by the denominator (bottom number).

Example 1:

  • Fraction: 3/4
  • Decimal Form: 0.75

Here, 3 divided by 4 gives 0.75. So, 3/4​ as a decimal is 0.75.

Example 2:

  • Fraction: 1/2​
  • Decimal Form: 0.5

Here, 1 divided by 2 gives 0.5. So, 1/2​ as a decimal is 0.5.

3. Converting a Mixed Number into a Decimal

A mixed number consists of a whole number and a fraction. To convert a mixed number into a decimal, first convert the fraction part into a decimal, and then add it to the whole number.

Example:

  • Mixed Number: 2 1/4
  • Decimal Form: 2.25

First, convert 1/4​ into a decimal, which is 0.25. Then, add this to the whole number 2: 2 + 0.25 = 2.25 So, 2 1/4​ as a decimal is 2.25.

4. Converting a Percentage into a Decimal

To convert a percentage into a decimal, divide the percentage by 100 or simply move the decimal point two places to the left.

Example 1:

  • Percentage: 75%
  • Decimal Form: 0.75

75% as a decimal is 0.75.

Example 2:

  • Percentage: 4.5%
  • Decimal Form: 0.045

Here, 4.5% as a decimal is 0.045.

5. Converting a Repeating Decimal into a Decimal

A repeating decimal has one or more digits that repeat indefinitely. We can convert it into a fraction first, then convert that fraction into a decimal, or recognize the repeating pattern.

Example:

  • Repeating Decimal: 0.333…
  • Decimal Form: 0.333…

This is already in decimal form, but it can also be written as 1/3, which when divided, gives 0.333…

6. Converting a Fraction with a Denominator of 10, 100, etc.

When the denominator of a fraction is 10, 100, 1000, etc., we can easily convert it by moving the decimal point in the numerator to the left according to the number of zeros in the denominator.

Example 1:

  • Fraction: 7/10​
  • Decimal Form: 0.7

Here, 7/10​ is simply 0.7 as a decimal.

Example 2:

  • Fraction: 53/100​
  • Decimal Form: 0.53

Here, 53/100 is simply 0.53 as a decimal.

Summary of Conversion Steps

  1. Whole Numbers: Add “.0” or “.00” as needed.
  2. Fractions: Divide the numerator by the denominator.
  3. Mixed Numbers: Convert the fraction part to a decimal and add it to the whole number.
  4. Percentages: Divide by 100 or move the decimal point two places to the left.
  5. Repeating Decimals: Recognize the pattern or convert to a fraction first.
  6. Fractions with 10, 100, etc.: Move the decimal point in the numerator to the left according to the denominator.

By understanding these methods, we can convert various types of numbers into decimals accurately.

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