Calculating 8/5 as a Decimal: A Step-by-Step Guide

Introduction

In mathematics, converting a fraction into a decimal form is a common task. In this article, we will explore how to convert the fraction 8/5 into a decimal using both a step-by-step method and the long division method. By following these straightforward techniques, you’ll be able to convert any fraction into its decimal equivalent.

Step-by-Step Method: To convert the fraction 8/5 into a decimal, follow these steps:

Step 1: Divide the numerator by the denominator:
8 ÷ 5 = 1 remainder 3

Step 2: Add a decimal point and a zero after the remainder:
1.0

Step 3: Bring down another zero:
1.00

Step 4: Divide the new number by the denominator:
3 ÷ 5 = 0.6

Step 5: Repeat step 4 until you achieve the desired level of decimal accuracy or until the division terminates.

Step 6: The final result is 1.6, which represents 8/5 as a decimal.

Long Division Method:
The long division method provides a visual representation of the division process, making it easier to understand. Here’s how to use this method to convert 8/5 into a decimal:

Step 1: Write the fraction as a division problem:
8 ÷ 5

Step 2: Set up the division, placing the numerator (8) inside the division bracket and the denominator (5) outside the bracket.

      1.6
    -------
5) 8

Step 3: Divide the first digit(s) of the numerator by the denominator:

a) Is 5 divisible by 8? No, so we move to the next digit.

b) Is 5 divisible by 80? No, so we continue.

c) Is 5 divisible by 800? No, and we keep going.

d) Is 5 divisible by 8000? No.

Step 4: Multiply the denominator (5) by the quotient (1) obtained from the previous step, and write the result below the numerator:

      1.6
    -------
5) 8
    -5

Step 5: Subtract the result obtained in Step 4 from the numerator:
8 – 5 = 3

Step 6: Bring down the next digit from the numerator (0 in this case) and place it next to the remainder obtained in Step 5:
3 becomes 30.

Step 7: Repeat steps 3 to 6 until you achieve the desired level of decimal accuracy or until the division terminates.

Step 8: The final result is 1.6, which represents 8/5 as a decimal.

Conclusion:
Converting fractions into decimals is a fundamental skill in mathematics. In this article, we explored the step-by-step method and the long division method to convert the fraction 8/5 into a decimal. By following these methods, you can confidently tackle any fraction and convert it into its decimal equivalent. Remember, practice makes perfect, so don’t hesitate to try these techniques on other fractions to strengthen your skills.