In this article, we will guide you step by step through the process of converting the decimal -4.5 into a fraction. We will start by understanding how a decimal represents the fractional part of a number, then break down the steps to rewrite -4.5 as a fraction. Finally, we will simplify the fraction by identifying and applying the Greatest Common Factor, ensuring the results are in the simplest form.
By the end of this guide, you should have a good understanding of decimal to fraction conversions and be able to apply this knowledge to various mathematical problems. Let's begin.
Step 1:
First, we express -4.5 as a fraction by placing it over 1:Step 2:
Next, we multiply both the numerator and denominator by 10 for each digit after the decimal point.Step 3:
Next, we find the Greatest Common Factor (GCF) for -45 and 10. Keep in mind a factor is just a number that divides into another number without any remainder.Step 4:
To simplify the fraction, we divide both the numerator and denominator by their greatest common factor (GCF), which we calculated in the previous step. The GCF value is -5 in this case.Discover how different decimal numbers can be expressed as fractions.
Practice makes perfect! Build your skills in converting decimals to fractions by following these step by step examples:
Read the following section to help deepen your understanding of basic math concepts.
A mixed number is made up of a whole number and a proper fraction.
A rational number is any number that can be expressed as the fraction of two integers, such as 3/4, -5/2, or 0.75.
A decimal is a number that includes a decimal point, representing a fraction of a whole. For example, 0.5 represents 1/2.
A terminating decimal is a decimal number that has a finite number of digits after the decimal point. For example, 0.35 and 3.5 are terminating decimals.
A repeating decimal is a decimal in which a digit or group of digits repeats infinitely. For example, 0.3333... (where 3 repeats forever) and 0.142857142857... (where 142857 repeats) are repeating decimals.
A percentage can be written as a fraction by placing it over 100 and simplifying. For example, 20% = 20/100 = 1/5.
There are numerous online resources available (some free and some paid) for learning math including decimals and fractions. These range from interactive games to in-depth courses and lessons. We recommend these websites as a valuable resource for students of all skill levels.
For early learners we recommend IXL Math. The math courses range from Pre-K to grade 12.
Math Planet has customized math courses for high school students.
Tailored for college students Paul's Online Math Notes let's students independent study for their math classes. It's also a free service.