We want to divide two decimal numbers. The calculations are easier if we multiply the divisor and the dividend by the same power of 10 so that the divisor is a whole number. In this case, we will multiply by 100.
8.722* 100 &= 872.2
- 3.56* 100 &= - 356This means that 8.722Ă· (- 3.56) is the same as 872.2Ă· (- 356). Next, recall that when dividing real numbers, the quotient will be positive if the signs are the same and it will be negative if the signs are different.
cc
Same Sign & Different Signs
(+)Ă· (+)=(+) & (+)Ă· (-)=(-)
(-)Ă· (-)=(+) & (-)Ă· (+)=(-)
In our case one number is positive and one number is negative, so the quotient will be negative.
872.2Ă· (- 356)=- (872.2Ă· 356)
Let's find the quotient! We will divide, multiply, subtract, and compare as many times as we need.
Since 872.2Ă· 356=2.45, we know that 8.722Ă· 3.56=2.45. This means that - (8.722Ă· 3.56)=- 2.45.
