To convert the fraction 2/7 into a decimal, we can perform long division. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown:
- Set up the division: We need to divide 2 by 7.
- Carry out the division: Since 2 is less than 7, we consider how many times 7 can fit into 2. It fits 0 times. So, we write 0. to our decimal.
- Add a decimal point and a zero: Now, we add a decimal point in our dividend (making it 20 after the decimal), and we can bring down a 0.
- Continue the division: Now we see how many times 7 can fit into 20. It fits 2 times (since 7 x 2 = 14).
- Subtract: Subtract 14 from 20, leaving 6.
- Bring down another zero: Now, we bring down another 0, making it 60.
- Repeat the process: See how many times 7 fits into 60. It goes 8 times (since 7 x 8 = 56). Subtract 56 from 60, which gives us 4.
- Bring down another zero: Bring down another 0 to make it 40.
- Repeat again: 7 fits into 40 5 times (since 7 x 5 = 35). Subtract 35 from 40, leaving us with 5.
- Continue: Bringing down another 0, we get 50. 7 fits into 50 7 times (since 7 x 7 = 49). Subtract 49 from 50, leaving us with 1.
- Final steps: Bring down another 0 to make 10. 7 fits into 10 1 time (since 7 x 1 = 7). Subtract 7 from 10, which leaves 3.
- You can see that the process will continue indefinitely. The decimal representation of 2/7 is 0.285714285714…, continuing with 285714 repeating.
Therefore, 2/7 as a decimal is approximately 0.2857 when rounded to four decimal places. Many calculators will provide it in a more precise format, showing it as 0.285714 with the digits 285714 repeating.