15 divided by 11

Guri Bee

2 min read

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23-10-2024

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15 Divided by 11: Unraveling the Decimal Mystery

Dividing 15 by 11 might seem like a simple arithmetic problem, but it holds a fascinating twist that leads to a recurring decimal. Understanding this concept can deepen our grasp of division and decimals.

The Basic Calculation:

15 divided by 11 can be written as 15/11. Performing the division, we get 1 with a remainder of 4.

The Decimal Surprise:

Here's where the interesting part comes in. Since we have a remainder, we don't have a whole number answer. Instead, we continue the division, adding a decimal point and a zero to the remainder (4). Now we have 40 to divide by 11.

11 goes into 40 three times (3 x 11 = 33) with a remainder of 7. Again, we add a zero to the remainder and continue the division. This process repeats, leading to a recurring decimal:

15 / 11 = 1.363636...

The '36' pattern keeps repeating indefinitely. This is what we call a recurring decimal, denoted by a bar over the repeating digits: 1.36̅

Why Does This Happen?

This repeating pattern occurs because the remainder never becomes zero. No matter how many times we add zeros and divide, we keep getting a remainder. This means the division process continues infinitely, resulting in the repeating decimal.

Practical Applications:

Understanding recurring decimals is vital in various fields:

• Finance: When calculating interest rates or loan repayments, recurring decimals might appear.
• Engineering: Precise measurements often involve recurring decimals, especially in calculations for distances, volumes, and weights.
• Computer Science: Representing numbers in binary systems sometimes leads to recurring decimals.

Going Beyond the Calculation:

While the basic calculation is straightforward, delving into the reasons behind the recurring decimal allows us to appreciate the intricacies of mathematics and its applications in real-world scenarios.

Additional Resources:

• Khan Academy: Decimals and Fractions - This helpful resource offers a deeper dive into decimals and their relationship with fractions.
• Math is Fun: Recurring Decimals - This website provides engaging explanations and examples of recurring decimals.

By understanding the concept of recurring decimals, we gain a richer understanding of numbers and their fascinating behavior in different contexts.