write 12.5 as a fraction and reduce it to lowest form
The correct answer and explanation is:
✅ Correct Answer:
12.5 as a fraction in lowest terms is: 252\frac{25}{2}
✍️ 300-Word Explanation:
To convert the decimal 12.5 into a fraction and reduce it to the lowest terms, follow these steps:
Step 1: Understand the decimal
The number 12.5 is a decimal with one digit after the decimal point. That digit, 5, is in the tenths place. So we can initially write: 12.5=1251012.5 = \frac{125}{10}
We did this by removing the decimal point and placing the number over a power of 10 (since there is one digit after the decimal, we use 10). Thus: 12.5=1251012.5 = \frac{125}{10}
Step 2: Simplify the fraction
To reduce the fraction to its lowest terms, find the greatest common divisor (GCD) of the numerator and denominator. The GCD of 125 and 10 is 5.
Now divide both the numerator and denominator by 5: 125÷510÷5=252\frac{125 ÷ 5}{10 ÷ 5} = \frac{25}{2}
Step 3: Final Answer
So, the decimal 12.5 in fraction form, reduced to lowest terms, is: 252\frac{25}{2}
Step 4: Verification
To check the result, divide the numerator by the denominator: 25÷2=12.525 ÷ 2 = 12.5
This confirms that our conversion is correct.
Why This Matters:
Converting decimals to fractions helps in various real-life situations such as measurements, cooking, and financial calculations where precise values are necessary. It also strengthens number sense and understanding of the relationship between decimals and fractions.
By mastering this process, you’re improving both your math fluency and your problem-solving flexibility.