Multiplying Decimals

Multiplying decimals is similar to multiplying whole numbers, but you must adjust for the decimal places at the end.

🌟 Example: 0.34 × 2.5=?

1. Ignore the Decimal Points
   • Treat the numbers as whole numbers and multiply normally: 34 × 25 = 850
2. Count the Total Decimal Places
   • 0.34 has 2 decimal places
   • 2.5 has 1 decimal place
   • Total decimal places = 2 + 1 = 3
3. Place the Decimal Point Correctly
   • Take the whole number result (850)
   • Move the decimal point 3 places to the left
   • Final Answer: 0.850 (or simply 0.85)

Multiplying decimals is useful in everyday situations, like finding the area of a rectangle with decimal measurements.

🌟 Example: 5.5 m × 2.6 m = ?

1. Ignore the Decimal Points
   • Treat the numbers as whole numbers and multiply normally: 55 × 26 = 1430
2. Count the Total Decimal Places
   • 5.5 has 1 decimal place
   • 2.6 has 1 decimal place
   • Total decimal places = 1 + 1 = 2
3. Place the Decimal Point Correctly
   • Start with the whole number result (1430)
   • Move the decimal point 2 places to the left
   • Final Answer: 14.30 m² (or simply 14.3 m²)

Multiplying decimals is useful in real-world situations. For example, if a taxi ride costs £6.5 per km and you travel 8.12 km, you can find the total fare by multiplying decimals.

🌟 Example: £6.5/km × 8.12 km = ?

1. Ignore the Decimal Points
   • Multiply as whole numbers: 65 × 812 = 52,780
2. Count the Total Decimal Places
   • 6.5 has 1 decimal place
   • 8.12 has 2 decimal places
   • Total decimal places = 1 + 2 = 3
3. Place the Decimal Point Correctly
   • Start with the whole number result (52,780).
   • Move the decimal point 3 places to the left.
   • Final Answer: £52.780 (or simply £52.78).

Multiplying decimals is essential in financial calculations, measurements, and scientific applications.