In the three-digit number 475, what is the place value of the digit 4?

Introduction:
This basic place value question checks whether you understand how the position of a digit in a multi-digit number affects its value. Here you are asked about the digit 4 in the number 475.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The number is 475.
• We are focusing on the digit 4.
• We must find the place value of this digit, not just its face value.

Concept / Approach:
In the standard decimal system:

• The rightmost digit is the units (ones) place.
• The next digit to the left is the tens place.
• The next digit to the left is the hundreds place.

The place value of a digit is: digit * (value of its position). So if a digit d is in the hundreds place, its place value is d * 100.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Identify positions of digits in 475. In 475:

• 5 is in the units place.
• 7 is in the tens place.
• 4 is in the hundreds place.

Step 2: Compute the place value of 4. Since 4 is in the hundreds place: Place value of 4 = 4 * 100 = 400. We are not asked for the entire number 475 or the simple digit 4, but the value contributed by 4 in its position.

Verification / Alternative Check:
We can expand 475 in terms of place values: 475 = 4 * 100 + 7 * 10 + 5 * 1 = 400 + 70 + 5. Clearly, the contribution from 4 is exactly 400, confirming our answer.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
4: This is the face value, not the place value, so it is incomplete.
40: Would be the place value if 4 were in the tens place, which it is not here.
475: This is the whole number, not the place value of the single digit 4.
44: This number has no direct interpretation in the context of place value for this digit.

Common Pitfalls:
Students sometimes confuse face value (the digit itself) with place value (digit times positional weight). Always multiply the digit by the positional power of 10 to get its place value.

Final Answer:
The place value of the digit 4 in 475 is 400.