Rewrite 3.2 as a simplified fraction.

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Understand the Problem

The question is asking to rewrite the repeating decimal 3.2 as a simplified fraction. The focus is on converting the decimal to its fractional form and simplifying it if possible.

Answer

The simplified fraction is $\frac{29}{9}$.
Answer for screen readers

The simplified fraction is $\frac{29}{9}$.

Steps to Solve

  1. Identify the decimal structure
    The decimal $3.2$ has a repeating portion. We can represent it as $3.\overline{2}$, or $3.222\ldots$.

  2. Set up an equation
    Let $x = 3.\overline{2}$. So, we have:
    $$ x = 3.2222... $$

  3. Multiply to remove the decimal
    Multiply both sides of the equation by $10$ to move the decimal point:
    $$ 10x = 32.2222... $$

  4. Subtract the original equation
    Now subtract the original equation $x = 3.2222...$ from $10x = 32.2222...$:
    $$ 10x - x = 32.222... - 3.222... $$
    This simplifies to:
    $$ 9x = 29 $$

  5. Solve for x
    Now, divide both sides by $9$:
    $$ x = \frac{29}{9} $$

  6. Final Result
    Thus, $3.\overline{2}$ as a simplified fraction is:
    $$ \frac{29}{9} $$

The simplified fraction is $\frac{29}{9}$.

More Information

The fraction $\frac{29}{9}$ is an improper fraction and represents the repeating decimal $3.\overline{2}$. Improper fractions can often be converted to mixed numbers, which in this case would be $3 \frac{2}{9}$.

Tips

  • Confusing repeating and non-repeating decimals: Make sure to accurately identify which digits repeat.
  • Improper subtraction: When subtracting the two equations, confirm that the decimal parts align correctly.

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