Converting mixed numbers to decimals is a common mathematical operation that can be accomplished with ease once you understand the process. In this article, we will focus on converting the mixed number 3 3/4 into a decimal, providing a step-by-step guide and exploring the underlying mathematical concepts.
The mixed number 3 3/4 represents three whole units and three-quarters of another unit. To convert this into a decimal, we need to first convert the fractional part (3/4) into a decimal and then add it to the whole number part (3).
Converting 3/4 to a Decimal
To convert the fraction 3/4 into a decimal, we divide the numerator (3) by the denominator (4). This operation can be performed using long division or a calculator.
3 ÷ 4 = 0.75
Now that we have the decimal equivalent of 3/4, we can add it to the whole number part (3) to get the decimal equivalent of 3 3/4.
Calculating 3 3/4 as a Decimal
To find the decimal equivalent of 3 3/4, we simply add the whole number part (3) to the decimal equivalent of the fractional part (0.75).
3 + 0.75 = 3.75
Therefore, 3 3/4 as a decimal is 3.75.
Key Points
- The mixed number 3 3/4 represents three whole units and three-quarters of another unit.
- To convert 3/4 to a decimal, divide the numerator (3) by the denominator (4), resulting in 0.75.
- The decimal equivalent of 3 3/4 is found by adding the whole number part (3) to the decimal equivalent of the fractional part (0.75), resulting in 3.75.
- Understanding the conversion process for mixed numbers to decimals is essential for various mathematical operations and real-world applications.
- Converting mixed numbers to decimals can be applied to various fields, such as finance, engineering, and science.
Real-World Applications
Converting mixed numbers to decimals has numerous real-world applications. For instance, in finance, decimals are used to represent interest rates, investment returns, and currency exchange rates. In engineering, decimals are used to represent measurements, tolerances, and material properties. In science, decimals are used to represent quantities, such as temperatures, pressures, and concentrations.
Example Applications
1. Finance: A savings account earns an interest rate of 3 3/4%. To calculate the interest earned, you need to convert the mixed number to a decimal: 3 3/4% = 3.75%. If you deposit $1,000, the interest earned would be $1,000 x 0.0375 = $37.50.
2. Engineering: A building design requires a beam with a length of 3 3/4 meters. To ensure accurate measurements, you need to convert the mixed number to a decimal: 3 3/4 meters = 3.75 meters.
| Conversion Examples | Decimal Equivalent |
|---|---|
| 1 1/2 | 1.5 |
| 2 3/4 | 2.75 |
| 3 1/4 | 3.25 |
Conclusion
In conclusion, converting the mixed number 3 3/4 to a decimal is a straightforward process that involves converting the fractional part to a decimal and adding it to the whole number part. The decimal equivalent of 3 3/4 is 3.75. This conversion has numerous real-world applications in fields such as finance, engineering, and science.
What is 3 3⁄4 as a decimal?
+3 3⁄4 as a decimal is 3.75.
How do I convert a mixed number to a decimal?
+To convert a mixed number to a decimal, convert the fractional part to a decimal by dividing the numerator by the denominator, and then add it to the whole number part.
What are some real-world applications of converting mixed numbers to decimals?
+Converting mixed numbers to decimals has numerous real-world applications in fields such as finance, engineering, and science, where accurate calculations and informed decision-making are crucial.