what is 28.204 rounded to the nearest whole
The correct answer and explanation is:
The number 28.204 rounded to the nearest whole number is 28.
To understand this rounding process, let’s look at how rounding works. Rounding involves adjusting a number to a specific place value based on the digits that follow it. When rounding to the nearest whole number, we focus on the digit in the tenths place (the first digit to the right of the decimal point).
In this case, the number 28.204 has a “2” in the tenths place. To round this number to the nearest whole number, we follow the standard rounding rule:
- If the digit in the tenths place is less than 5, we round down, keeping the whole number as it is.
- If the digit in the tenths place is 5 or greater, we round up, increasing the whole number by 1.
Since the tenths digit here is 2 (which is less than 5), we round down. Therefore, 28.204 becomes 28 when rounded to the nearest whole number.
In general, rounding helps simplify numbers, making them easier to work with while maintaining an appropriate level of precision. This method is frequently used in everyday life, such as when estimating costs, calculating distances, or making measurements. By rounding to the nearest whole number, you eliminate any unnecessary decimal places, which can make calculations faster and more efficient without significantly affecting the result.
In this example, the rounded value of 28.204 is 28, as the tenths place (2) does not meet the threshold of 5 to round up.