To convert the decimal .54 into a fraction, we can break down the process into simple, easy-to-follow steps. Understanding decimals and fractions is crucial in mathematics, as these concepts are foundational for further mathematical learning. Letβs explore how to simplify .54 into a fraction step-by-step. π
Understanding the Basics of Decimals and Fractions
Before diving into the conversion, it's important to understand what decimals and fractions are:
- Decimal: A decimal is a way of representing a fraction in a form that uses powers of ten. For instance, .54 means 54 hundredths.
- Fraction: A fraction represents a part of a whole and is written as one number over another (numerator over denominator).
Step 1: Write the Decimal as a Fraction
To convert .54 into a fraction, we start by writing it over 1:
[ \frac{.54}{1} ]
Next, to eliminate the decimal, we can multiply both the numerator and the denominator by 100 (since .54 has two decimal places):
[ \frac{.54 \times 100}{1 \times 100} = \frac{54}{100} ]
Step 2: Simplifying the Fraction
The next step is to simplify (\frac{54}{100}). To simplify, we need to find the greatest common divisor (GCD) of the numerator and denominator.
Finding the GCD of 54 and 100
To find the GCD, we can list the factors of each number:
- Factors of 54: 1, 2, 3, 6, 9, 18, 27, 54
- Factors of 100: 1, 2, 4, 5, 10, 20, 25, 50, 100
The greatest common factor of 54 and 100 is 2.
Dividing the Numerator and Denominator by the GCD
Now we can divide both the numerator and the denominator by their GCD:
[ \frac{54 \div 2}{100 \div 2} = \frac{27}{50} ]
Step 3: Final Fraction Form
Now, we have simplified .54 into the fraction:
[ \frac{27}{50} ]
Conclusion
The decimal .54 can be expressed as the fraction (\frac{27}{50}). This process illustrates how to convert a decimal into a fraction and simplify it efficiently. Understanding these conversions is essential for students as they progress in their mathematical studies.
Quick Reference Table
To summarize, here is a quick reference table for converting decimals to fractions:
<table> <tr> <th>Decimal</th> <th>Fraction</th> <th>Simplified Fraction</th> </tr> <tr> <td>0.1</td> <td>1/10</td> <td>1/10</td> </tr> <tr> <td>0.25</td> <td>25/100</td> <td>1/4</td> </tr> <tr> <td>0.5</td> <td>50/100</td> <td>1/2</td> </tr> <tr> <td>0.75</td> <td>75/100</td> <td>3/4</td> </tr> <tr> <td>0.54</td> <td>54/100</td> <td>27/50</td> </tr> </table>
Important Note
"Always remember to simplify fractions as much as possible to find the most accurate representation!" π
This guide should provide you with a clear understanding of how to convert decimals to fractions, specifically .54 into (\frac{27}{50}). Keep practicing these conversions to improve your math skills! Happy learning! π