Difficulty: Easy
Correct Answer: 226.65
Explanation:
Introduction / Context:
This problem focuses on adding decimal numbers accurately. Although the calculation is straightforward, it tests attention to place value and correct alignment of decimal points. Many small mistakes in aptitude exams occur in apparently simple decimal addition, so such questions are useful to assess care and precision in basic arithmetic.
Given Data / Assumptions:
- Expression to simplify: 55.55 + 155 + 15.55 + 0.5 + 0.05.
- All numbers are in decimal or whole number form.
- Standard decimal notation is used, with two decimal places where needed.
- No hidden brackets or additional operations are implied beyond addition.
Concept / Approach:
The safest approach is to group the whole number parts and the decimal parts separately, add them, and then combine the results. Alternatively, we can line up decimals and add column by column. Working systematically helps avoid misplacing digits, especially in the tenths and hundredths positions.
Step-by-Step Solution:
Write the numbers: 55.55, 155, 15.55, 0.5, 0.05.
First add the whole numbers: 155 (from 155) + 55 (from 55.55) + 15 (from 15.55) = 225.
Now add the decimal parts: 0.55 (from 55.55) + 0.55 (from 15.55) + 0.5 + 0.05.
Compute 0.55 + 0.55 = 1.10.
Then 1.10 + 0.5 = 1.60.
Next 1.60 + 0.05 = 1.65.
Combine whole and decimal parts: 225 + 1.65 = 226.65.
Verification / Alternative check:
We can add directly in one line using a calculator style approach: 55.55 + 155 = 210.55, then + 15.55 = 226.10, then + 0.5 = 226.60, and finally + 0.05 = 226.65. The result matches our stepwise calculation, confirming that 226.65 is correct.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Option 196.55 is smaller and would arise from omitting one of the larger terms such as 30 or more.
Option 202.35 suggests misplacement or misaddition of decimal parts and does not equal the given sum.
Option 216.66 appears to combine digits from the expression but is not the correct total and may come from mixing up decimal places.
Common Pitfalls:
Frequent mistakes include aligning decimals incorrectly, ignoring the decimal portion of some terms, or rounding mid calculation. To avoid these errors, keep all decimals to two places until the end and add carefully. Verifying with a second quick pass helps catch miscalculations.
Final Answer:
The exact value of the expression is 226.65.
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