Problem 29 - Prealgebra

Question

In the following exercises, name each number in words. The population of China is expected to reach 1,377,583,156 in 2016.

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

One billion, three hundred seventy-seven million, five hundred eighty-three thousand, one hundred fifty-six.

Step 1 - Group the Numbers

Divide the number into groups of three digits starting from the right to left:1,377,583,156.

Step 2 - Identify Each Group

Label each group according to its place value:1 (billion), 377 (million), 583 (thousand), 156.

Step 3 - Read Each Group in Words

Translate each group into words:1 = one billion,377 = three hundred seventy-seven million,583 = five hundred eighty-three thousand,156 = one hundred fifty-six.

Step 4 - Combine the Words

Combine each group in words to form the complete number:One billion, three hundred seventy-seven million, five hundred eighty-three thousand, one hundred fifty-six.

Key Concepts

Place Value

Understanding place value is crucial when writing large numbers in words. Place value refers to the value of a digit depending on its position within a number.
For instance, in the number 1,377,583,156:

• The digit '1' at the far left is in the billions place.
• The group '377' represents the millions place.
• '583' is in the thousands place.
• The last group, '156' represents the units, or ones, place.

By knowing the place value, we can identify the value each digit represents, making it easier to convert them into words. Each group of numbers (units, thousands, millions, billions) forms a segment that must be translated individually.

Large Numbers

Large numbers can seem intimidating, but breaking them down makes the process manageable. Large numbers are usually divided into groups of three digits for readability.
For example, taking our number 1,377,583,156, broken down, it looks like this:

• 1 (billion)
• 377 (million)
• 583 (thousand)
• 156 (units)

Each of these groups is read from right to left, starting at the ones place. Being aware of the size and magnitude of each numerical group helps in accurately writing and understanding number names.

Number Grouping

Number grouping is the method of dividing numbers into smaller, manageable sections, typically in groups of three. This approach helps simplify both reading and writing numbers.
When tackling the number 1,377,583,156:

• First, divide the number into groups of three digits from right to left.
• We get our groups: 1, 377, 583, and 156.

Once grouped, it's easier to label each group (billions, millions, thousands, and ones), and translate these groups into words.
Applying this clear, step-by-step methodology ensures accuracy and makes the process of working with large numbers more straightforward.