The process of converting a fraction to a decimal is straightforward and can be accomplished with basic arithmetic operations. To convert 1/5 to a decimal, follow these simple steps.
Understanding Fractions and Decimals
Fractions represent a part of a whole and are denoted by two numbers: the numerator (the top number) and the denominator (the bottom number). Decimals, on the other hand, represent a fraction where the denominator is a power of 10. Converting a fraction to a decimal involves dividing the numerator by the denominator.
Step 1: Identify the Fraction
In this case, the fraction is 1⁄5. This means we have 1 part out of a total of 5 equal parts.
Step 2: Divide the Numerator by the Denominator
To convert 1⁄5 to a decimal, we divide the numerator (1) by the denominator (5). So, we perform the calculation: 1 ÷ 5.
Step 3: Perform the Division
Dividing 1 by 5 gives us 0.2. This is because 1 divided by 5 equals 0.2.
Step 4: Write the Result as a Decimal
Therefore, the decimal equivalent of the fraction 1⁄5 is 0.2.
Step 5: Verify the Conversion
To verify that 0.2 is indeed the decimal equivalent of 1⁄5, we can convert 0.2 back to a fraction. Since 0.2 is two tenths, it can be written as 2⁄10, which simplifies to 1⁄5 when both the numerator and denominator are divided by 2.
Key Points
- The fraction 1/5 represents one part out of five equal parts.
- To convert a fraction to a decimal, divide the numerator by the denominator.
- The decimal equivalent of 1/5 is 0.2, found by dividing 1 by 5.
- Converting 0.2 back to a fraction verifies that it equals 1/5.
- Fractions and decimals are two different ways to represent parts of a whole.
In conclusion, converting 1/5 to a decimal is a simple process that involves basic division. By following these steps, anyone can convert fractions to decimals and better understand the relationship between these two mathematical concepts.
What is the difference between a fraction and a decimal?
+A fraction represents a part of a whole using a numerator and a denominator, while a decimal represents a fraction with a denominator that is a power of 10.
How do you convert a fraction to a decimal?
+You convert a fraction to a decimal by dividing the numerator by the denominator.
Can all fractions be converted to decimals?
+Yes, all fractions can be converted to decimals, but some may result in repeating or non-repeating decimals.