Tenths

Definition

Tenths refer to the place value that represents one-tenth, or 0.1, of a whole unit. Tenths are a key concept in the understanding and manipulation of decimal numbers, which are an essential part of the 1.4 Decimals topic.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Tenths represent the first decimal place to the right of the decimal point, indicating one-tenth of a whole unit.
2. Tenths can be written as a decimal, such as 0.1, or as a fraction, such as 1/10.
3. Tenths are used to express more precise measurements and quantities than whole numbers alone.
4. Operations with decimal numbers, such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division, rely on understanding the value of tenths.
5. Rounding decimal numbers to the nearest tenth is a common skill required in the 1.4 Decimals topic.

Review Questions

• How can tenths be represented in both decimal and fraction form?
  • Tenths can be represented in decimal form as 0.1, which means one-tenth of a whole unit. They can also be represented as a fraction, 1/10, which indicates that the whole unit has been divided into ten equal parts, and one of those parts is being referred to.
• Explain the importance of understanding the place value of tenths in decimal operations.
  • Understanding the place value of tenths is crucial for performing accurate decimal operations, such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. The position of the tenths place determines the value of the decimal, and correctly aligning the decimal places is essential for obtaining the correct result. Misaligning the tenths place can lead to significant errors in the final answer.
• Describe how rounding decimal numbers to the nearest tenth is a useful skill in the 1.4 Decimals topic.
  • Rounding decimal numbers to the nearest tenth is a common skill required in the 1.4 Decimals topic. This skill allows for more precise representation of quantities and measurements, while also simplifying calculations. Rounding to the nearest tenth can be particularly useful when working with real-world data or when the exact decimal value is not necessary for the problem at hand. Understanding the concept of tenths and how to round to this place value is essential for effectively applying this skill.

Related terms

Decimal: A number representation that uses a decimal point to express fractional parts of a whole number.

Place Value:

The value of a digit in a number based on its position relative to the decimal point.

Fraction:

A numerical quantity that is not a whole number, expressed as the quotient of two integers.