Dividing decimals is similar to dividing whole numbers, but you need to adjust for the decimal points. Here's a step-by-step guide:
How to Divide Decimals
Step 1: Set up the division
Write the division problem as you would with whole numbers, ignoring the decimal points for now.
Step 2: Make the divisor a whole number
If the divisor (the number you're dividing by) has decimals, multiply both the divisor and the dividend (the number you're dividing) by the same power of 10 to make the divisor a whole number.
- For example, if the divisor is 0.4, multiply both numbers by 10.
- If the divisor is 0.03, multiply both by 100.
Step 3: Divide as whole numbers
Now divide the numbers as if they were whole numbers.
Step 4: Place the decimal point in the quotient
The decimal point in the answer (quotient) goes directly above the decimal point in the dividend (the number inside the division bracket).
Example
Divide 4.8 ÷ 0.4:
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Multiply both numbers by 10 to make the divisor a whole number: 4.8 × 10 = 48
0.4 × 10 = 4 -
Now divide 48 ÷ 4 = 12
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So, 4.8 ÷ 0.4 = 12
If you'd like, I can provide more examples or practice problems!
