Understanding Decimal Expansions

Oct 13, 2025 by wbrum.org 23 views

Introduction

When dealing with decimal expansions, converting them into fractions can be a challenging task. However, with the right approach, it can be done efficiently. In this article, we will explore the process of converting the decimal expansion $0.05$ into a fraction.

Understanding Decimal Expansions

A decimal expansion is a way of representing a number as a sum of fractions with powers of 10 as denominators. For example, the decimal expansion $0.05$ can be written as:

0.05 = \frac{5}{100}

Converting Decimal Expansions to Fractions

To convert a decimal expansion into a fraction, we need to find the greatest common divisor (GCD) of the numerator and denominator. In this case, the GCD of 5 and 100 is 5.

Finding the Fraction

To find the fraction, we can divide both the numerator and denominator by the GCD:

\frac{5}{100} = \frac{5 \div 5}{100 \div 5} = \frac{1}{20}

Conclusion

In conclusion, the fraction for the decimal expansion $0.05$ is $\frac{1}{20}$ . This can be verified by dividing 5 by 100, which equals 0.05.

Comparison with Options

Let's compare our result with the given options:

A. $\frac{1}{9}$ : This is not equal to $\frac{1}{20}$ .
B. $\frac{1}{27}$ : This is also not equal to $\frac{1}{20}$ .

Final Answer

Therefore, the correct answer is:

C. $\frac{1}{20}$

Additional Tips

When dealing with decimal expansions, it's essential to find the greatest common divisor (GCD) of the numerator and denominator to simplify the fraction. Additionally, you can use online tools or calculators to verify your results.

Real-World Applications

Converting decimal expansions to fractions has various real-world applications, such as:

Finance: When dealing with interest rates or currency exchange rates, decimal expansions need to be converted into fractions for accurate calculations.
Science: In physics and engineering, decimal expansions are used to represent measurements, and converting them into fractions is essential for precise calculations.
Mathematics: Converting decimal expansions to fractions is a fundamental concept in mathematics, and it's used in various mathematical operations, such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.

Conclusion

In conclusion, converting the decimal expansion $0.05$ into a fraction involves finding the greatest common divisor (GCD) of the numerator and denominator and simplifying the fraction. The correct answer is $\frac{1}{20}$ . This concept has various real-world applications, and it's essential to understand the process of converting decimal expansions to fractions.

Introduction

Converting decimal expansions to fractions can be a challenging task, but with the right approach, it can be done efficiently. In this article, we will address some frequently asked questions (FAQs) on converting decimal expansions to fractions.

Q: What is the greatest common divisor (GCD) and why is it important?

A: The greatest common divisor (GCD) is the largest number that divides two or more numbers without leaving a remainder. In the context of converting decimal expansions to fractions, the GCD is essential in simplifying the fraction. By dividing both the numerator and denominator by the GCD, we can obtain the simplest form of the fraction.

Q: How do I find the GCD of two numbers?

A: There are several methods to find the GCD of two numbers, including:

Listing the factors of each number and finding the greatest common factor
Using the Euclidean algorithm
Using online tools or calculators

Q: What is the simplest form of a fraction?

A: The simplest form of a fraction is obtained by dividing both the numerator and denominator by their greatest common divisor (GCD). For example, the fraction $\frac{10}{20}$ can be simplified by dividing both the numerator and denominator by 10, resulting in $\frac{1}{2}$ .

Q: Can I use a calculator to convert decimal expansions to fractions?

A: Yes, you can use a calculator to convert decimal expansions to fractions. Many calculators have a built-in function to convert decimal numbers to fractions. Additionally, online tools and calculators are also available to perform this conversion.

Q: What are some real-world applications of converting decimal expansions to fractions?

A: Converting decimal expansions to fractions has various real-world applications, including:

Finance: When dealing with interest rates or currency exchange rates, decimal expansions need to be converted into fractions for accurate calculations.
Science: In physics and engineering, decimal expansions are used to represent measurements, and converting them into fractions is essential for precise calculations.
Mathematics: Converting decimal expansions to fractions is a fundamental concept in mathematics, and it's used in various mathematical operations, such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.

Q: Can I convert a decimal expansion to a fraction with a denominator that is not a power of 10?

A: Yes, you can convert a decimal expansion to a fraction with a denominator that is not a power of 10. However, this may require a more complex process, such as using the concept of equivalent fractions or finding the least common multiple (LCM) of the denominator and the numerator.

Q: What is the difference between a decimal expansion and a fraction?

A: A decimal expansion is a way of representing a number as a sum of fractions with powers of 10 as denominators. A fraction, on the other hand, is a way of representing a number as a ratio of two integers. While decimal expansions can be converted into fractions, not all fractions can be represented as decimal expansions.

Q: Can I convert a fraction to a decimal expansion?

A: Yes, you can convert a fraction to a decimal expansion by dividing the numerator by the denominator. For example, the fraction $\frac{1}{2}$ can be converted to a decimal expansion by dividing 1 by 2, resulting in 0.5.

Conclusion

In conclusion, converting decimal expansions to fractions is an essential concept in mathematics, and it has various real-world applications. By understanding the process of converting decimal expansions to fractions, you can simplify complex calculations and make accurate decisions in finance, science, and other fields.