Math Example--Percents--Equations with Percents: Example 8

Topic

Solving Equations

Description

This math example demonstrates solving percent equations by asking "What is 52.3% of 36.9?" The solution involves converting 52.3% to its decimal equivalent, 0.523, and then multiplying it by 36.9 to obtain the result of 19.2987. This example introduces both a decimal percentage and a decimal base number, adding complexity to the calculation and showcasing the versatility of the percent-to-decimal conversion method.

Solving equations with percents is a fundamental skill in mathematics that has wide-ranging applications in finance, statistics, and everyday problem-solving. These examples help students understand the process of converting percentages to decimals and applying them to various numbers, including decimals. This skill is crucial for more advanced mathematical concepts and real-world scenarios where precise calculations are necessary, such as in scientific research or financial analysis.

The importance of presenting multiple worked-out examples cannot be overstated. Each new example reinforces the concept while introducing slight variations, such as decimal percentages or base numbers. This approach helps students recognize patterns, adapt their problem-solving strategies, and gain confidence in their ability to handle diverse scenarios involving percentages, preparing them for more complex mathematical challenges they may encounter in higher education or professional settings.

Teacher Script: "Now, let's tackle a more complex example. We need to find 52.3% of 36.9. First, what do we do with the percentage? That's right, we convert it to a decimal. So, 52.3% becomes 0.523. Now, we multiply this by our base number, 36.9. Can anyone tell me what 0.523 × 36.9 equals? Excellent, it's 19.2987. Notice how we're still following the same steps, but now we're working with decimal percentages and decimal base numbers. This shows that our method is versatile and can handle various types of numbers. In real-world situations, you'll often encounter decimal percentages and values, so it's important to be comfortable working with them."

For a complete collection of math examples related to Solving Equations click on this link: Math Examples: Equations with Percents Collection.