Divide decimals using equal scaling
The idea
Multiply both numbers by the same power of 10 until the divisor is a whole number.
Step by step
- Multiply both numbers by the same power of 10 until the divisor is a whole number.
- Divide the scaled amounts; changing both numbers by the same factor keeps their ratio unchanged.
- Check by multiplying the quotient by the original divisor.
Example
What is 3.6 ÷ 0.6?
Answer
6
Multiply both numbers by 10 to keep the quotient unchanged: 36 ÷ 6 = 6. Check: 6 × 0.6 = 3.6.
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Try it together
Use a money or measurement model for 3.6 ÷ 0.6. Compare it with 36 ÷ 6, then check the product.
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