Reviewed by Franz Jerby Delos Santos
What is 3 1/2 as a decimal?
Answer: 3 1/2 as a decimal is 3.5
Converting a mixed number into a decimal is a useful skill in mathematics. Mixed numbers, like 3 1/2, consist of a whole number and a fractional part. Turning them into decimals helps with calculations and comparisons. Let’s see how to convert 3 1/2 into a decimal step by step.
Methods
Math Tutor Explanation Using the Addition Method
This method separates the whole number and the fraction, converts the fraction to a decimal, and then adds the two parts together.
Step 1: Step 1: Recognize that 3 1/2 means 3 plus 1/2
Step 2: Step 2: Convert 1/2 to a decimal by dividing 1 by 2 to get 0.5
Math Tutor Explanation Using the Improper Fraction Method
This method first converts the mixed number into an improper fraction, then divides to find the decimal value.
Step 1: Step 1: Convert 3 1/2 to an improper fraction by multiplying 3 by 2 and then adding 1 to get 7/2
Step 2: Step 2: Divide 7 by 2 to get 3.5
Step 1:
Step 2:
Math Tutor suggests: Practice More Mixed Number to Decimal Conversions
Build your skills in converting mixed numbers and fractions to decimals with these helpful exercises.
FAQ on Converting Mixed Numbers to Decimals
What is a mixed number?
A mixed number is a number made up of a whole number and a fraction, like 3 1/2.
Why convert mixed numbers to decimals?
Decimals are often easier to use in calculations and compare values, especially on calculators or in scientific work.
Can all mixed numbers be written as exact decimals?
Most can, but some fractions result in repeating decimals, like 1/3 becoming 0.333...
How do you check your answer is correct?
You can convert the decimal back to a fraction and then to a mixed number to see if it matches the original.
Is there a quick way to convert common fractions to decimals?
Yes, memorize common fraction-to-decimal conversions like 1/2 = 0.5, 1/4 = 0.25, and 3/4 = 0.75.
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