Solving 18.5 Divided by 20: A Step-by-Step Guide
Dividing decimals can sometimes feel tricky, but with a clear method, it becomes straightforward. Let's break down how to solve 18.5 divided by 20.
Understanding the Problem:
We're essentially asking: "How many times does 20 fit into 18.5?" Since 20 is larger than 18.5, the answer will be a decimal less than 1.
Method 1: Long Division
This classic method provides a detailed approach to solving the problem:
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Set up the long division: Write 18.5 inside the long division symbol (⟌) and 20 outside.
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Add a decimal point: Since 18 is smaller than 20, place a decimal point directly above the decimal point in 18.5 in your answer space. This helps keep track of decimal placement.
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Add a zero: Add a zero to 18.5 to make it 185. This allows us to perform the division.
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Divide: Now, ask: "How many times does 20 go into 185?" The answer is 9. Write 9 above the 5.
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Multiply and subtract: Multiply 9 by 20 (which is 180) and subtract it from 185. The result is 5.
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Bring down a zero: Bring down another zero next to the 5, making it 50.
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Divide again: Ask: "How many times does 20 go into 50?" The answer is 2. Write 2 above the newly added zero.
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Multiply and subtract: Multiply 2 by 20 (which is 40) and subtract it from 50. The result is 10.
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Continue the process (optional): You can continue adding zeros and dividing to get a more precise answer. However, for many purposes, 0.92 is sufficiently accurate.
Therefore, using long division, 18.5 divided by 20 is approximately 0.925.
Method 2: Converting to Fractions
Another way to solve this is by converting the decimal to a fraction:
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Write 18.5 as a fraction: 18.5 can be written as 185/10.
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Divide the fraction: Now we have (185/10) / 20. Dividing by a number is the same as multiplying by its reciprocal. So, this becomes (185/10) * (1/20).
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Simplify: Multiply the numerators (185 * 1 = 185) and the denominators (10 * 20 = 200). This gives us 185/200.
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Reduce the fraction (optional): Both 185 and 200 are divisible by 5. Reducing the fraction gives us 37/40.
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Convert to decimal: To convert 37/40 to a decimal, divide 37 by 40. This also gives 0.925.
Conclusion:
Both methods demonstrate that 18.5 divided by 20 equals 0.925. Choosing the method that you find most comfortable and easy to understand is key to mastering decimal division. Remember to always check your work and consider the level of precision needed for your specific application.
