How to Calculate 20 Divided by 70 as a Decimal
Dividing numbers can sometimes be tricky, especially when the result isn't a whole number. Today, we'll be exploring how to solve the division problem 20 divided by 70 and express the answer as a decimal.
Understanding Division
Division is a fundamental mathematical operation that involves splitting a whole into equal parts. In the context of our problem, we want to figure out how many times 70 goes into 20. Since 20 is smaller than 70, the answer will be less than 1.
Setting Up the Division
To perform the division, we can use the traditional long division method:
0.2857...
70 | 20.0000
14.0
------
6.00
5.60
------
0.400
0.350
------
0.0500
0.0490
------
0.0010
...
Explanation:
- Set up the equation: Write 70 as the divisor outside the division symbol and 20 as the dividend inside. Add decimal points and zeros after 20 to continue the division.
- Initial division: 70 doesn't go into 20, so we move to 200. 70 goes into 200 twice (2 x 70 = 140). Write "2" above the division symbol and subtract 140 from 200.
- Carry down and repeat: Bring down the next zero to get 600. 70 goes into 600 eight times (8 x 70 = 560). Write "8" above the division symbol and subtract 560 from 600.
- Continuing the process: Continue bringing down zeros and dividing. You'll notice a repeating pattern here, indicated by "..." after the decimal.
The Decimal Answer
The division of 20 by 70 results in the decimal 0.2857.... This decimal is a repeating decimal, meaning the digits "2857" continue infinitely.
Tips for Decimal Division
- Remember the decimal point: When dividing, always remember to place the decimal point in the quotient directly above the decimal point in the dividend.
- Zeroes are your friends: Add zeros after the decimal point in the dividend to continue the division until you find a pattern or reach a desired level of accuracy.
- Repeating decimals: If you see a pattern of repeating digits, you can denote this with "..." after the repeating sequence.
Conclusion
Dividing 20 by 70 results in the repeating decimal 0.2857.... By understanding the process of long division and recognizing repeating decimals, you can successfully perform this and other similar division problems.