Problem 2 - Elementary Algebra Within Reach

Question

Convert the decimal or fraction to a percent. $$0.57$$

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

The decimal 0.57 is equal to 57%.

Step 1: Identify the decimal number

You need to convert 0.57 into a percentage.

Step 2: Multiply by 100

To convert the decimal into a percent, multiply 0.57 by 100. That will yield 57.

Step 3: Add the percent symbol

After multiplying, add the percent symbol (%) to your answer to make it a percentage. The result is 57%.

Key Concepts

percent conversion

Converting a decimal into a percentage is a handy mathematical process. It helps in understanding numbers in a more relatable form. By percent conversion, you turn a decimal number into a percentage, making it easier to grasp and compare with other numbers.
This process is widely used in day-to-day situations, like calculating discounts, analyzing data, or understanding performance metrics.

• The basic idea of percent conversion is to transform a part (decimal) into a part of one hundred (percentage).
• Percentages are more intuitive for most people, as they relate to whole values, such as 100% being the whole.

To remember, whenever you think of a decimal to percent conversion, you are simply translating it into a scale of 0 to 100.

multiplying decimals by 100

One of the crucial steps in converting decimals to percentages is multiplying the decimal by 100. This operation shifts the decimal point two places to the right.
Let’s look at the given example: 0.57. To convert 0.57 into a percentage, multiply it by 100. Performing this operation is straightforward:

• Take 0.57, and multiply it: \(0.57 \times 100 = 57\).
• This result of 57 suggests 57 out of a possible 100, thus establishing it as 57%.

Multiplying a decimal by 100 for conversion is essential because it scales the decimal to a percentage form. The concept is simple - multiplying by 100 effectively transitions the number from a fractional to a more complete representation.

adding percent symbol

After multiplying the decimal by 100, the last step in the conversion process is to add the percent symbol (%). This symbolizes that the number is now a percentage.
In the example of the decimal 0.57:

• Once multiplied by 100, you get 57.
• Adding the percent symbol to 57 makes it 57%.

Adding the percent symbol is crucial as it denotes that the number is a percentage and not just a plain number. It provides clarity and context in any mathematical or real-world scenario. It's always the final touch that completes the conversion, turning the number into a recognizable percentage format.