Express the fraction 3/5 as a decimal number.

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: 0.60

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
This question assesses your ability to convert a simple fraction into an equivalent decimal. This is a fundamental numerical skill that appears in questions involving percentages, profit and loss, and data analysis.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Given fraction: 3/5.
  • We need to write 3/5 in decimal form.
  • No rounding is required because the decimal will terminate exactly.


Concept / Approach:
To convert a fraction into a decimal, divide the numerator by the denominator. Since the denominator 5 is a factor of 10, the decimal representation of 3/5 will be a terminating decimal with one digit after the decimal point when expressed carefully.


Step-by-Step Solution:

Step 1: Write the fraction as a division: 3 ÷ 5.Step 2: Because 3 is smaller than 5, rewrite it as 3.0 and perform 3.0 ÷ 5.Step 3: 5 goes into 30 exactly 6 times (6 * 5 = 30).Step 4: After placing the decimal point, we get 0.6 as the decimal form.Step 5: Note that 0.60 is the same numerical value as 0.6. Writing a trailing zero does not change the value.


Verification / Alternative check:
We can also convert by creating an equivalent fraction with denominator 10. Multiply numerator and denominator by 2 to get (3 * 2) / (5 * 2) = 6/10. The fraction 6/10 is directly read as 0.6, which matches our earlier result.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:
0.25 corresponds to 1/4, not 3/5. 0.45 is equal to 9/20. 0.75 equals 3/4. None of these fractions are equal to 3/5, so those options are incorrect.


Common Pitfalls:
Some learners confuse 3/5 with 0.35 because they copy the digits directly, but that is incorrect. Remember that the decimal is derived from division, not simply by placing a decimal point in the numerator. Always perform or mentally check the division.


Final Answer:
The decimal representation of 3/5 is 0.60.

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