How do you write $-\frac{2}{3}$ as a decimal?
A. $-0.1 \overline{6}$
B. $-0 . \overline{2}$
C. $-0 . \overline{6}$
D. $-0.0 \overline{6}$
Answer (1)
Divide 2 by 3, which results in the repeating decimal 0. 6 .
Apply the negative sign since the original fraction is negative.
The decimal representation of − 3 2 is − 0. 6 .
The final answer is − 0. 6 .
Explanation
Understanding the Problem We need to convert the fraction − 3 2 into its decimal representation. This means we need to divide 2 by 3 and then apply the negative sign.
Performing the Division Let's perform the division: 2 ÷ 3 = 0.6666... . This is a repeating decimal, which can be written as 0. 6 .
Applying the Negative Sign Since the original fraction was negative, we need to add a negative sign to our result. Therefore, − 3 2 = − 0. 6 .
Final Answer Comparing our result with the given options, we find that the correct answer is − 0. 6 .
Examples
Understanding how to convert fractions to decimals is useful in everyday situations, such as when splitting a bill with friends. For example, if a bill is 20 an d yo u n ee d t os pl i t i tt h ree w a ys , yo u w o u l d c a l c u l a t e \frac{20}{3} = 6.\overline{6}$. This means each person owes approximately $6.67. Knowing how to convert fractions to decimals helps ensure fair and accurate calculations.
