Problem 73 - Elementary Algebra

Question

Convert to a decimal. \(147 \%\)

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

147% as a decimal is 1.47.

Step 1: Understand Percentage

Recognize that a percentage is a number or ratio expressed as a fraction of 100. Therefore, 147% means 147 per 100.

Step 2: Convert Percentage to Fraction

Convert the percentage to a fraction by writing it as a number over 100. Thus, \(147\%\) becomes \(\frac{147}{100}\).

Step 3: Convert Fraction to Decimal

Divide the numerator by the denominator to convert the fraction to a decimal. Calculate \(147 \div 100 = 1.47\).

Key Concepts

Decimal Conversion

Understanding how to convert percentages to decimals is a fundamental skill in mathematics education. A decimal conversion involves changing a percentage or fraction into a decimal number, which is an easier form to use in calculations and comparisons.
To convert a percentage to a decimal directly, you can follow a simple rule:

• Move the decimal point two places to the left.
• Add a decimal point if the percentage is a whole number.

So, for a percentage like 147%, you move the decimal two places left to get 1.47. This step ensures you're correctly scaling the percentage, which is out of 100, into a decimal format.

Fraction to Decimal

Converting fractions to decimals is another crucial component of mathematics that assists in understanding and utilizing numbers in different formats. A fraction represents division, meaning it is a portion of a whole number.
To successfully convert a fraction into a decimal:

• Identify the numerator and the denominator of the fraction.
• Perform the division of the numerator by the denominator.

In our example, the fraction of 147% is written as \(\frac{147}{100}\). When you divide 147 by 100, it equates to 1.47. This means the fraction, as a part of a whole, is shown numerically as a decimal, facilitating easier computation and understanding.

Mathematics Education

Decimals, fractions, and percentages are central to mathematics education because they are practical number formats used in daily life and advanced math. Understanding their interrelations fosters mathematical literacy and problem-solving skills, which are necessary for academic and real-world applications.
Educational strategies often emphasize:

• Real-life context to make these concepts relatable and understandable, such as calculating discounts or interest rates.
• Incremental learning, starting with simple concepts and slowly advancing to more complex topics.
• Visual aids and interactive tools to demonstrate how numbers relate and transform (e.g., fraction bars or decimal grids).

By mastering these conversions, students can effectively tackle diverse mathematical challenges and develop a strong quantitative foundation.