Convert the decimal -0.97 to a fraction by recognizing that it has two decimal places.
Write -0.97 as a fraction with a denominator of 100: − 100 97 .
Check if the fraction can be simplified. Since 97 is a prime number, the fraction is already in its simplest form.
The final answer is − 100 97 .
Explanation
Problem Analysis We need to convert the decimal -0.97 into a fraction.
Converting to Fraction To convert a decimal to a fraction, we write the decimal as a fraction with a denominator of 10, 100, 1000, etc., depending on the number of decimal places. Since -0.97 has two decimal places, we can write it as a fraction with a denominator of 100.
Writing the Fraction So, -0.97 can be written as − 100 97 .
Simplifying the Fraction Since 97 is a prime number, the fraction − 100 97 is already in its simplest form.
Final Answer Therefore, -0.97 as a fraction is − 100 97 .
Examples
Understanding how to convert decimals to fractions is useful in many everyday situations. For example, if you want to calculate a discount of 0.25 (which is 1/4) on an item priced at $20, you can easily find the discount amount by multiplying $20 by 1/4, which equals $5. Similarly, if you need to divide a recipe that calls for 0.5 cups of flour (which is 1/2 cup), knowing the fractional equivalent helps you measure the correct amount. Converting decimals to fractions allows for more precise calculations and better understanding of proportions in various real-life scenarios.