1.42 as a fraction

Breiz Heurope

2 min read

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10-03-2025

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Meta Description: Learn how to convert the decimal 1.42 into a fraction. This comprehensive guide provides a step-by-step process, explaining the concepts and offering helpful tips for similar conversions. Master fraction conversion today!

Understanding Decimals and Fractions

Before diving into the conversion, let's quickly review the basics. A decimal represents a part of a whole number, using a decimal point to separate the whole number from the fractional part. A fraction, on the other hand, expresses a part of a whole as a ratio of two numbers – the numerator (top number) and the denominator (bottom number). Converting between decimals and fractions is a fundamental skill in mathematics.

Converting 1.42 to a Fraction: A Detailed Approach

Here's how to convert the decimal 1.42 into its fractional equivalent:

1. Identify the place value: The number 1.42 has a whole number part (1) and a decimal part (.42). The last digit (2) is in the hundredths place.

2. Write it as a fraction: Because the last digit is in the hundredths place, we can write the decimal part as a fraction with a denominator of 100:

   .42 = 42/100

3. Combine the whole number and fraction: Now, combine the whole number (1) with the fraction (42/100):

   1 + 42/100 = 1 42/100

4. Simplify the fraction (if possible): We can simplify the fraction 42/100 by finding the greatest common divisor (GCD) of 42 and 100. The GCD of 42 and 100 is 2. Dividing both the numerator and the denominator by 2, we get:

   42 ÷ 2 = 21 100 ÷ 2 = 50

   So, 42/100 simplifies to 21/50.

5. Final Result: Therefore, 1.42 as a fraction is 1 21/50.

Alternative Method: Using Decimal Multiplication

Another approach involves multiplying both the numerator and denominator by 10 raised to the power of the number of digits after the decimal point. In 1.42, we have two digits after the decimal point, so we'll multiply by 100:

1. Multiply by 100: 1.42 x 100 = 142

2. Create the fraction: The result (142) becomes the numerator, and the multiplier (100) becomes the denominator:

   142/100

3. Simplify the fraction: This fraction simplifies to 71/50, which is equivalent to 1 21/50. This method avoids the step of separating the whole number from the decimal part initially.

Practical Applications of Decimal to Fraction Conversions

Converting decimals to fractions is crucial in various fields:

• Baking and Cooking: Recipes often use fractional measurements. Converting decimal amounts (e.g., from a digital scale) into fractions ensures accuracy.

• Engineering and Construction: Precise measurements are vital, and fractions are used extensively in blueprints and calculations.

• Finance: Calculating interest rates or proportions often requires converting between decimals and fractions.

• Mathematics: A strong understanding of fraction manipulation is essential for advanced mathematical concepts.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How do I convert other decimals to fractions?

A: Follow the same steps outlined above. Identify the place value of the last digit in the decimal, use that as the denominator, and then simplify the resulting fraction.

Q: What if the decimal is a repeating decimal?

A: Converting repeating decimals to fractions involves a slightly different method, which often involves algebraic manipulation. There are numerous online resources and tutorials that explain this process.

Q: Why is simplifying fractions important?

A: Simplifying fractions makes them easier to understand and work with. It presents the fraction in its most concise form.

This comprehensive guide should provide a thorough understanding of how to convert 1.42 into its fractional form. Remember to practice these steps with other decimals to solidify your understanding!