Decimal fractions, also known as decimal numbers, are numbers expressed in the base-ten system. They consist of a whole number and a decimal part, separated by a decimal point. For example, the decimal fraction 3.25 represents 3 whole units and 25 hundredths.
Decimal fractions are commonly used in everyday life, from measuring quantities such as time, distance, and weight, to calculating money and percentages. They are also used in scientific and mathematical calculations.
The main difference between a decimal fraction and a regular fraction is their form of representation. While decimal fractions are expressed in decimal form, regular fractions are expressed as a ratio of two integers. For example, 0.5 is the decimal form of the regular fraction 1/2.
To add or subtract decimal fractions, line up the decimal points and then perform the operation as you would with whole numbers. To multiply, ignore the decimal points and multiply the numbers as if they were whole numbers. To divide, move the decimal point in the divisor to the right until it becomes a whole number, then move the decimal point in the dividend the same number of places. Finally, divide as you would with whole numbers.
Understanding decimal fractions is essential in higher level math courses because they are the foundation for many concepts, such as algebra, geometry, and calculus. They are also used in various real-world applications, making it crucial to have a strong understanding of them for problem-solving and critical thinking skills.