5.6 as a fraction

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15-01-2025

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The decimal 5.6 can be easily converted into a fraction. This guide will walk you through the process, explaining the steps clearly and providing additional tips for similar conversions. Understanding this process will help you confidently tackle other decimal-to-fraction conversions.

Understanding Decimals and Fractions

Before we begin, let's quickly review the basics. Decimals represent parts of a whole using a base-ten system. Fractions, on the other hand, represent parts of a whole using a numerator (the top number) and a denominator (the bottom number). Converting between the two involves understanding place value.

Converting 5.6 to a Fraction: The Method

Here's how to convert 5.6 into a fraction:

1. Write the decimal as a fraction over 1: This is the first step in any decimal-to-fraction conversion. We write 5.6 as 5.6/1.

2. Multiply the numerator and denominator by 10: Because there's one digit after the decimal point, we multiply both the numerator and the denominator by 10. This moves the decimal point one place to the right in the numerator. This gives us (5.6 x 10) / (1 x 10) = 56/10.

3. Simplify the fraction: Now, we need to simplify 56/10 to its lowest terms. Both the numerator and the denominator are divisible by 2. Dividing both by 2, we get 28/5.

Therefore, 5.6 as a fraction is 28/5.

Visualizing the Fraction

Imagine a pizza cut into 5 equal slices. The fraction 28/5 represents 28 of these slices. Since 5 slices make a whole pizza, we have 5 full pizzas and 3 more slices (28 divided by 5 is 5 with a remainder of 3). This can also be expressed as a mixed number: 5 3/5.

Converting Other Decimals to Fractions

The method we used for 5.6 can be applied to other decimals. The key is to multiply the numerator and denominator by a power of 10 (10, 100, 1000, etc.) to eliminate the decimal point. The power of 10 depends on the number of digits after the decimal point.

• One digit after the decimal: Multiply by 10.
• Two digits after the decimal: Multiply by 100.
• Three digits after the decimal: Multiply by 1000, and so on.

Always remember to simplify the resulting fraction to its lowest terms.

Practice Problems

Try converting these decimals to fractions using the steps outlined above:

• 2.5
• 0.75
• 12.25
• 3.125

By mastering this simple method, you'll be able to confidently convert any decimal number into its equivalent fraction. Remember to always simplify your answer for a clear and concise representation.