What is 1/8 in decimal?
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
To convert the fraction ( \frac{1}{8} ) into decimal form, we can perform the division of the numerator (1) by the denominator (8). When we divide 1 by 8, we proceed as follows:
- Set up the division: We write it as ( 1 \div 8 ).
- Long Division Process:
- Since 1 is less than 8, we can’t divide directly, so we consider it as ( 1.000000 ) (adding decimal places).
- 8 goes into 10 once (1 time), which gives us ( 8 ). We subtract 8 from 10, resulting in 2.
- We then bring down the next digit (0), making it 20. 8 goes into 20 two times (2 times), resulting in ( 16 ). Subtracting 16 from 20 leaves us with 4.
- We bring down the next 0 to make it 40. 8 goes into 40 five times (5 times), resulting in ( 40 ). Subtracting gives us 0.
- Since there are no more digits to bring down, the division ends here.
Putting this together, we find that ( \frac{1}{8} = 0.125 ).
Explanation of Decimal Representation
Fractions are numerical representations of a part of a whole, where the numerator indicates how many parts we have and the denominator indicates how many equal parts make up a whole. In the case of ( \frac{1}{8} ), it signifies that we have one part of a whole that is divided into eight equal parts.
Decimal representation provides a way to express these fractions in a base-10 format, which is particularly useful in calculations and real-world applications. Decimals are typically easier to understand and manipulate than fractions, especially in everyday transactions, scientific measurements, and various calculations in mathematics and engineering.
In conclusion, the decimal equivalent of ( \frac{1}{8} ) is ( 0.125 ). This conversion is fundamental in various mathematical contexts, helping bridge the understanding between different forms of numerical expressions.