Michael S01, convert rational number into decimal form: 1) 4.5
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
Correct Answer:
4.5 is already in decimal form.
Explanation:
A rational number refers to any number that can be written as a fraction, where both the numerator and the denominator are integers and the denominator is not zero. In this case, the number 4.5 is a rational number because it can be written as a fraction:
4.5 = 45 ÷ 10 = 9/2
This fraction form confirms that 4.5 qualifies as a rational number. Since it is already expressed in decimal form, no conversion is required. The decimal includes a digit before the decimal point (4) and one digit after it (5), indicating that it is a terminating decimal.
To better understand this, consider the process of converting a fraction to a decimal. For instance, take the fraction 9/2. When dividing 9 by 2, the result is exactly 4.5. The division process stops after one decimal place, showing that 4.5 is a terminating decimal, which means it does not go on infinitely and does not repeat.
Terminating decimals are a common feature of rational numbers. Any rational number either terminates (ends after a few decimal places) or repeats a digit or group of digits in a predictable pattern. In this case, 4.5 stops after one digit following the decimal point, making it a straightforward example of a terminating decimal.
This representation is useful in various fields including measurement, finance, and science, where exact values are needed. Understanding how to recognize and interpret rational numbers in decimal form enhances numerical literacy and helps in making accurate calculations.
Thus, 4.5 stands as a rational number that is already in decimal form and represents a simple example of how a fraction can be interpreted in the base-10 number system.
