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Last updated on May 26th, 2025

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5 1/2 as a Decimal

Professor Greenline Explaining Math Concepts

It is a simple question on decimal conversion. Firstly, we have to learn fractions and decimals. A fraction represents a part from the whole. It has two parts: numerator (number on the top) and denominator (number below). In the case of a mixed number like 5 1/2, we have a whole part (5) and a fractional part (1/2). A decimal is a way to represent numbers that are not whole, using a decimal point (.) to separate the whole part from the fraction part. The numbers to the left of the decimal point represent the whole, and those to the right represent the fractional part.

5 1/2 as a Decimal for Indian Students
Professor Greenline from BrightChamps

What is 5 1/2 as a decimal?

5 1/2 as a decimal

 

Answer

 

5 1/2 in decimal form can be written as 5.5. This is a terminating decimal.

 

Explanation

 

To convert 5 1/2 to a decimal, we need to convert the fractional part 1/2 to a decimal and then add it to the whole number 5.

 

Let's see the step-by-step breakdown of the process:

 

Step 1: Identify the whole part and fractional part of the mixed number. Here, the whole part is 5, and the fractional part is 1/2.

 

Step 2: Convert the fractional part to a decimal. To convert 1/2 to a decimal, divide the numerator (1) by the denominator (2).

 

Step 3: 1 divided by 2 equals 0.5.

 

Step 4: Add the decimal obtained from the fractional part (0.5) to the whole part (5) to get the decimal form of the mixed number.

 

Step 5: Therefore, 5 + 0.5 equals 5.5. The decimal representation of 5 1/2 is 5.5, which is a terminating decimal.

Professor Greenline from BrightChamps

Important Glossaries for 5 1/2 as a decimal

  • Fraction: A numerical quantity that is not a whole number, representing a part of a whole.
     
  • Decimal: A number that uses the base ten and includes a decimal point to separate the whole part from the fractional part.
     
  • Mixed Number: A number consisting of a whole number and a fraction combined.
     
  • Terminating Decimal: A decimal that ends and does not repeat infinitely.
     
  • Division: The process of determining how many times one number is contained within another.
Professor Greenline from BrightChamps

About BrightChamps in India

At BrightChamps, we understand math questions go beyond just calculations—they open doors to countless opportunities! Our goal is to assist children across India in mastering important skills like today’s focus on the 5 1/2 as a Decimal with a key emphasis on decimal conversions—in an engaging, enjoyable, and easy-to-understand way. Whether your child is calculating the speed of a train, following scores in a cricket match, or managing their pocket money for the latest gadgets, good math skills build their confidence for daily challenges. Our interactive lessons make learning fun and simple. Since children in India learn in varied ways, we adapt our teaching to fit each child’s unique style. From the bustling markets of Mumbai to the vibrant streets of Delhi, BrightChamps brings math to life, making it relevant and exciting all over India. Let’s make decimal conversions a fun part of every child’s math journey!
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