A decimal sequence is a list of numbers that follow a specific pattern and include decimals. Each number in the sequence increases or decreases by the same amount, called the step or interval.
The difference between numbers in a decimal sequence can be a whole number or a decimal. Always check how much the numbers change from one term to the next.
To find a missing number in a decimal sequence, you must first identify the pattern or rule the numbers follow. You can do this by finding the difference between two numbers that are next to each other.
Example: 2.4, 2.6, ____, 3.0
The difference between 2.4 and 2.6 is 0.2. Add 0.2 again to find the missing number: 2.8.
You can use addition for increasing sequences and subtraction for decreasing sequences.
Decimals follow the same place value rules as whole numbers. Each place to the right of the decimal point is ten times smaller than the one before it.
Example: When the pattern adds 0.05 each time, you are increasing by five hundredths.
Understanding place value helps you add or subtract decimals correctly when finding patterns.
Once you know the pattern, use it to fill in missing terms in a sequence. Always double-check by continuing the pattern before and after the missing number.
Writing down the rule for your pattern helps you stay consistent when solving longer sequences.
Decimal sequences appear in many real-world situations, such as measuring weight, temperature, or money. Understanding patterns helps you estimate, compare, and predict values accurately.
When working with decimals in real life, round carefully and check that your answers make sense for the situation.