Decimal Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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decimal
[ˈdɛsɪməl ]
Definitions
mathematics concept
A decimal is a fraction expressed in a standard form, where the denominator is a power of ten. It allows for the representation of non-integer values and is often used in measurements, currency, and calculations. Decimals are typically written with a decimal point to separate the integer part from the fractional part. For example, 2.5 represents 2 and a half, while 0.75 represents three-quarters of a whole. The use of decimals simplifies arithmetic operations like addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.
Synonyms
decimal fraction, fraction.
Examples of usage
- The price of the item is $5.99.
- You can express 0.5 as a decimal.
- In mathematics, 1.25 is a decimal representation of a rational number.
mathematics representation
Decimal as an adjective describes a numerical system based on ten, particularly for expressing fractions. It relates to numbers that are in the base-10 system. In this context, a decimal number may include both whole numbers and fractional parts denoted with a decimal point. This classification is significant in both arithmetic operations and in the numerical representation of real-world quantities. Decimal-based operations are commonplace in various fields including finance, engineering, and everyday mathematics.
Synonyms
base-ten, decimalized.
Examples of usage
- She calculated the total in decimal form.
- He is studying decimal arithmetic.
- We use decimal numbers in most transactions.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The decimal system, based on ten, was used by ancient civilizations like the Egyptians and was documented as early as 2000 BC.
- Famous mathematician al-Khwarizmi, in the 9th century, helped introduce the decimal system to Europe via translations of Arabic math texts.
- The term 'decimal' comes from the Latin word 'decimus', which means 'tenth'.
Mathematics
- A decimal point separates the whole number from the fractional part, making it essential for precise calculations.
- When you move the decimal point to the right, you multiply the number by ten; moving it left divides by ten.
- Decimals are often used in measurements, financial calculations, and scientific data because they represent values more accurately.
Pop Culture
- Decimal numbers are commonly used in movie ratings. For example, a film might receive a score of 8.7 out of 10.
- In gaming, decimals can be found in scoring systems where performance is often rated with more precision, like 95.7% instead of just 95%.
- Songs and books often reference exact measurements in their lyrics or plots, highlighting the importance of decimals in storytelling.
Everyday Life
- When you buy groceries and see prices like $3.99, that's a decimal showing you how much you need to pay.
- When measuring ingredients in cooking, decimals help get the exact amounts right, like 0.5 cups of sugar.
- Decimals are frequently used in sports statistics, such as batting averages in baseball, to provide a more detailed picture of performance.
Science
- In science, decimals are crucial for representing small measurements, like the size of molecules, often expressed in nanometers.
- Scientists use decimals when recording temperatures (e.g., 98.6°F) to ensure precision in their data.
- The metric system, which uses decimals extensively, allows for consistent measurements in experiments and research worldwide.
Origin of 'decimal'
The term 'decimal' originated from the Latin word 'decimus', which means 'tenth'. The concept of decimal numbers has been utilized since ancient civilizations, particularly by the Babylonians and Egyptians. However, it was the Hindu-Arabic numeral system that fully developed the decimal system we use today. Introduced to Europe in the late 10th century, it revolutionized mathematics and commerce by providing a simpler way to calculate and represent numbers. The decimal system became widely adopted for its practical applications, leading to its current prominence in mathematics and various fields. Over time, the concept expanded to include decimals in both fractional and percentage forms, establishing its integral role in modern numerical representation.