The decimal number 3.25 can be converted to a fraction in a few simple steps. Understanding how decimals translate to fractions can be very useful in various mathematical operations and real-world applications.
Understanding the Conversion Process
To convert a decimal to a fraction, we need to express the decimal part as a fraction of 1. In the case of 3.25, the decimal part is.25. This decimal part is essentially twenty-five hundredths, because.25 is the same as 25/100.
Converting.25 to a Simplified Fraction
To simplify.25 (or 25/100), we divide both the numerator (25) and the denominator (100) by their greatest common divisor (GCD), which in this case is 25. When we divide 25 by 25, we get 1, and when we divide 100 by 25, we get 4.
So,.25 as a simplified fraction is 1/4.
Combining the Whole Number and Fraction
Since the original number was 3.25, we need to combine the whole number part (3) with the fraction part we just simplified (1/4). This gives us a mixed number.
To convert this to an improper fraction (a single fraction that combines the whole number and fraction parts), we multiply the denominator of the fraction part (4) by the whole number (3), and then add the numerator of the fraction part (1). This becomes the new numerator. The denominator remains the same.
3 * 4 = 12 12 + 1 = 13
So, the improper fraction representing 3.25 is 13/4.
Verifying the Conversion
To verify that 13/4 accurately represents 3.25, we can convert it back to a decimal by dividing the numerator by the denominator.
13 / 4 = 3.25
This confirms that 3.25 as a fraction in its simplest form is indeed 13/4.
Conclusion: Putting It All Together
Understanding how to convert decimals to fractions and simplifying them is a fundamental skill in mathematics. Being able to express numbers like 3.25 as fractions (13/4 in this case) not only enhances mathematical operations but also deepens our understanding of numerical relationships.
If you found this explanation helpful, please share your thoughts or ask any questions you might have in the comments below.
What is the decimal number 3.25 as a fraction?
+3.25 as a fraction is 13/4.
How do you convert.25 to a fraction?
+.25 is the same as 25/100, which simplifies to 1/4.
Why is it useful to know how to convert decimals to fractions?
+Converting decimals to fractions enhances mathematical operations and deepens our understanding of numerical relationships.