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Converting Fractions to Decimals Flashcards
GCSE Mathematics (Edexcel) 1MA1
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Converting a fraction to a decimal
Divide the numerator by the denominator using long division or a calculator.
Terminating decimal
A decimal that has a finite number of digits after the decimal point.
Recurring decimal
A decimal in which one or more digits repeat infinitely.
Example: Convert 1/4 to a decimal
1 ÷ 4 = 0.25 (terminating decimal).
Example: Convert 1/3 to a decimal
1 ÷ 3 = 0.333... (recurring decimal).
Recognising a terminating decimal
A fraction will convert to a terminating decimal if its denominator (in simplest form) has only 2 and/or 5 as prime factors.
Recognising a recurring decimal
A fraction will convert to a recurring decimal if its denominator (in simplest form) has prime factors other than 2 or 5.
Converting a mixed number to a decimal
Convert the fractional part to a decimal and add it to the whole number part.
Example: Convert 2 1/5 to a decimal
2 + (1 ÷ 5) = 2 + 0.2 = 2.2.
Using a calculator for fractions to decimals
Enter the fraction using the division key (e.g., 3 ÷ 8) to get the decimal equivalent.
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