Equivalent decimals are decimals that name the same value, even though they look different. They are equal in size and represent the same point on the number line.
Zeros after the last digit in a decimal do not change its value. They only change how the number looks, not what it means.
To identify if two decimals are equivalent, compare their place values or write them as fractions to see if they are equal.
You can always write a decimal with more zeros after the last digit without changing its value. For example, 0.7 = 0.70 = 0.700.
Decimals and fractions are two ways to show parts of a whole. Equivalent decimals can also be found by writing decimals as fractions with powers of ten as denominators.
Thinking of decimals as fractions helps you understand why some decimals are equivalent—they represent the same part of a whole.
Recognizing equivalent decimals helps you compare, order, and add or subtract decimals more easily. It also helps you estimate and solve real-world problems with money and measurement.
When solving problems, writing decimals with the same number of digits after the decimal point helps keep your work neat and accurate.
Ask yourself: do the decimals show the same value? Can I write both as the same fraction or align their digits to compare them equally?
Always check place value carefully. Two decimals are equivalent only if they represent the exact same quantity.