The multiplication of 10 by 6.59 is a straightforward calculation that can be easily performed. To begin, we understand that multiplying by 10 is essentially adding a zero to the end of the number being multiplied, due to the base-10 system used in decimal arithmetic. However, when dealing with decimals, the process remains simple but requires attention to the placement of the decimal point in the result.
Multiplication Process
To multiply 10 by 6.59, we follow the basic rules of multiplication in the decimal system. First, we multiply 10 by 659 (the decimal part is temporarily ignored for the calculation), which equals 6,590. Then, we reintroduce the decimal point. Since 6.59 has two digits after the decimal point, our result, 6,590, will have the decimal point two places from the right, resulting in 65.90.
Understanding Decimal Multiplication
It’s crucial to understand that when multiplying decimals by whole numbers, the position of the decimal point in the product is determined by the number of decimal places in the factors. In this case, 6.59 has two decimal places, and when multiplied by 10 (a whole number), the product will also have its decimal point placed to reflect the two decimal places of the original decimal number, but since we are essentially moving the decimal point one place to the right due to the multiplication by 10, the correct placement in the result is maintained by considering the original decimal’s placement.
| Operation | Result |
|---|---|
| 10 * 6.59 | 65.90 |
Applications in Real-World Scenarios
Multiplying decimals by whole numbers, as seen in the 10 times 6.59 example, is a fundamental operation that appears in various real-world applications. For instance, in commerce, calculating the total cost of items, including taxes or discounts, often involves such multiplications. In science, multiplying decimals is crucial for calculating volumes, areas, and other physical quantities. Understanding how to perform these operations accurately is essential for making precise calculations in these fields.
Practical Examples
A practical example could be calculating the total cost of purchasing 10 units of a product that costs 6.59 per unit. The calculation, as demonstrated, would be 10 * 6.59 = 65.90. This simple multiplication is fundamental in inventory management, accounting, and consumer purchases.
Another example might involve scientific calculations, such as determining the volume of a liquid. If a container can hold 6.59 liters of liquid, and you have 10 such containers, the total volume would be 10 * 6.59 = 65.90 liters. This kind of calculation is essential in chemistry, engineering, and environmental science.
What is the rule for multiplying decimals by whole numbers?
+When multiplying decimals by whole numbers, you multiply as if the decimal were a whole number, then place the decimal point in the product so that it has the same number of decimal places as the original decimal number. However, since multiplication by 10 (or powers of 10) shifts the decimal point, the placement adjusts accordingly.
How does the multiplication by 10 affect the decimal point?
+Multiplication by 10 shifts the decimal point one place to the right. Therefore, when multiplying 6.59 by 10, the result is 65.90, reflecting this shift.
In conclusion, the multiplication of 10 by 6.59, resulting in 65.90, demonstrates a fundamental arithmetic operation that is widely applicable across various fields. Understanding the rules for multiplying decimals by whole numbers and how the decimal point is affected by such operations is crucial for accurate calculations in both everyday and professional contexts.
