How to Turn a Mixed Number into a Decimal
Converting a mixed number into a decimal is a fundamental skill in mathematics, especially when dealing with real-world problems that involve money, measurements, or any other quantities that can be expressed as fractions. A mixed number consists of a whole number and a fraction. The process of converting it into a decimal is straightforward and can be broken down into a few simple steps. In this article, we will guide you through the process of how to turn a mixed number into a decimal.
First, let’s define what a mixed number is. A mixed number is a combination of a whole number and a proper fraction. For example, 3 1/4 is a mixed number, where 3 is the whole number and 1/4 is the fraction.
To convert a mixed number into a decimal, follow these steps:
1. Convert the fraction to a decimal: Start by converting the fraction part of the mixed number into a decimal. To do this, divide the numerator (the top number) by the denominator (the bottom number). For instance, in the mixed number 3 1/4, divide 1 by 4, which equals 0.25.
2. Add the whole number to the decimal: Once you have the decimal equivalent of the fraction, add the whole number to it. In our example, 3 + 0.25 equals 3.25.
3. Combine the whole number and the decimal: Write the whole number and the decimal side by side to represent the mixed number as a decimal. So, the mixed number 3 1/4 becomes 3.25 as a decimal.
Let’s look at a few more examples to solidify the process:
Example 1: Convert 2 3/8 into a decimal.
– Convert the fraction: 3 divided by 8 equals 0.375.
– Add the whole number: 2 + 0.375 equals 2.375.
– The mixed number 2 3/8 as a decimal is 2.375.
Example 2: Convert 5 7/16 into a decimal.
– Convert the fraction: 7 divided by 16 equals 0.4375.
– Add the whole number: 5 + 0.4375 equals 5.4375.
– The mixed number 5 7/16 as a decimal is 5.4375.
Remember, the key to converting a mixed number into a decimal is to first convert the fraction into a decimal and then add the whole number to it. With practice, this process will become second nature, and you’ll be able to convert mixed numbers into decimals with ease.
