Dividing Decimals Examples in Math
Start with the recap, study the fully worked examples, then use the practice problems to check your understanding of Dividing Decimals.
This page combines explanation, solved examples, and follow-up practice so you can move from recognition to confident problem-solving in Math.
Concept Recap
Dividing numbers that contain decimal points, typically by converting the divisor to a whole number (multiplying both divisor and dividend by a power of 10) and then performing long division.
If you want to split \7.20 equally among 3 people, you're dividing a decimal. The trick for harder problems is: if the divisor is 0.4, multiply both numbers by 10 to get 72 \div 4 = 18$. You haven't changed the answer—just made it easier to compute.
Read the full concept explanation →How to Use These Examples
- Read the first worked example with the solution open so the structure is clear.
- Try the practice problems before revealing each solution.
- Use the related concepts and background knowledge badges if you feel stuck.
What to Focus On
Core idea: Make the divisor a whole number by multiplying both dividend and divisor by the same power of 10, then divide normally.
Common stuck point: Remembering to move the decimal in both the divisor AND the dividend by the same number of places.
Sense of Study hint: Multiply both the divisor and dividend by the same power of 10 to make the divisor a whole number before dividing.
Worked Examples
Example 1
easySolution
- 1 Think: \(36 \div 4 = 9\).
- 2 Since \(3.6 = 36 \times 0.1\), we get \(3.6 \div 4 = 0.9\).
- 3 Or: \(4 \times 0.9 = 3.6\) ✓.
Answer
Example 2
mediumPractice Problems
Try these problems on your own first, then open the solution to compare your method.
Example 1
easyExample 2
mediumRelated Concepts
Background Knowledge
These ideas may be useful before you work through the harder examples.