Represent 42 divided by 6 = 7 using subtraction
The correct answer and explanation is:
Answer:
We can represent 42 ÷ 6 = 7 using repeated subtraction by subtracting 6 from 42 repeatedly until we reach 0. We count how many times we subtract 6 — that will give us the quotient.
Let’s subtract:
- 42 – 6 = 36
- 36 – 6 = 30
- 30 – 6 = 24
- 24 – 6 = 18
- 18 – 6 = 12
- 12 – 6 = 6
- 6 – 6 = 0
We subtracted 6 a total of 7 times.
So, 42 ÷ 6 = 7 is correctly shown using subtraction.
Explanation (300 words):
Division is the process of splitting a number into equal parts. One way to understand division, especially for beginners, is by using repeated subtraction. Repeated subtraction means subtracting the same number again and again from a larger number until we reach zero. Each subtraction represents one group being taken away. The number of times we subtract tells us how many groups (or parts) we have — this is the same as the answer (quotient) in division.
In the equation 42 ÷ 6 = 7, we are trying to find out how many groups of 6 can be taken from 42. Using repeated subtraction, we subtract 6 again and again:
- First subtraction: 42 becomes 36
- Second: 36 becomes 30
- Third: 30 becomes 24
- Fourth: 24 becomes 18
- Fifth: 18 becomes 12
- Sixth: 12 becomes 6
- Seventh: 6 becomes 0
After subtracting 6 exactly seven times, we are left with 0, meaning we have evenly divided 42 into seven groups of 6.
This method is helpful for visual learners or those just beginning to learn division. It connects subtraction, a familiar operation, to division, and helps develop a deeper understanding of what division means. This is especially effective when dividing small numbers or teaching younger students who may not yet be comfortable with division facts.
In conclusion, repeated subtraction is a foundational concept that reinforces division as the process of grouping or sharing equally, and it shows clearly why 42 ÷ 6 = 7.