Order 1/2, 0.45, 0.6 from smallest to largest

Step by step

The question

Question: put 1/2, 0.45, 0.6 in order, from smallest to largest.

1 Write each as a decimal

To compare, we write every number the same way: as a decimal.

A decimal is tenths, hundredths or thousandths.

2 times 5 is 10.

So we multiply the top and the bottom by 5.

5 tenths is 0.5.

So 1/2 is 0.5.

2 Same number of digits

Zeros at the end of a decimal do not change it: 0.5 is the same as 0.50.

So we give every number 2 digits after the point.

3 Compare

Now they all have 2 digits after the point.

So we can forget the point and compare them like whole numbers: 45 < 50 < 60.

Careful!

More digits does not mean bigger.

Compare 0.45 with 0.50.

4 Write the answer

Now we write the numbers as they were given, in the same order: 0.45, 1/2, 0.6.

5 Check

Let's check on a number line.

Smaller numbers are further to the left.

We put a dot for each number.

From left to right: 0.45, 1/2, 0.6.

The same order.

So the answer is right!

Let's look back.

First: write each as a decimal.

Then: same number of digits.

Then: compare.

Then: write the answer.

Last: check.