Dividing decimals by whole numbers means splitting a decimal value into equal groups. The number being divided has a decimal, while the number you divide by is a whole number.
The process follows the same steps as dividing whole numbers. The only difference is placing the decimal correctly in the answer.
To divide a decimal by a whole number, divide as usual and bring the decimal point straight up into the answer.
The decimal does NOT move left or right. It goes straight up from the dividend to the quotient.
Many real-life problems involve dividing decimals by whole numbers, such as sharing money, measuring amounts, or splitting distances.
When using decimals in real-world problems, always check that your answer makes sense for the situation.
If the decimal does not divide evenly, you can add zeros to continue dividing until you reach a stopping point or a repeating pattern.
Adding zeros to the right of a decimal does NOT change the value. It only helps you continue dividing.
When you divide a decimal by a whole number greater than 1, the quotient is usually smaller than the original number because you are splitting it into groups.
If your quotient is larger than the original decimal when dividing by a whole number greater than 1, check your work.