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When adding up columns (not colums) of figures it is critical that figures with the same place value are added together (see below). Lining up the decimal points ensures that this is the case.

If place vales were not lined up, 12 + 23 could be 242 (unit value of 23 lined up with tens value of 12), or 143 (tens value of 23 lined up with unit value of 12) or 35 (units and tens correctly aligned).

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Q: Why are decimal point line up and corresponding place value columns when adding decimals?
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What is the first step when you are adding and subtracting decimals?

Write them one above the other with the decimal points aligned.


How do you place the decimal points in addends?

In adding decimals, align the decimal point for an easier computation. Example: 5.16 + 3.002 + 0.4 = ______ 5.16 3.002 0.4 ===== 8.562


Why do you line up the decimal when adding or subtracting decimal numbers?

Yes, When Adding and Subtracting decimals you should line up the decimals. You need to keep each place value in the same column, the same as when you add whole numbers you keep the ones column lined up, same for the tens, etc. Lining up the decimal points makes sure that the tenths column is kept together, same for the hundredths, and so on.


What decimals are equivalent to 0.08?

0.07999999999999999999... is the only equivalent decimal.Since 0.08 is an exact number, there is no other decimal alternative other than adding extra trailing zeroes, for example, 0.080, 0.0800...


What is the difference between adding whole numbers and adding decimals?

The main difference is that with whole numbers the decimal point is "hiding" (after the last digit of each whole number) whereas with decimal numbers it is clearly visible. In both cases the numbers are added with the decimal points aligned - with whole numbers there are no digits after the decimal points so the decimal points are not written, but if they were they would be visible after the last digit of the whole numbers and they would be automatically aligned; with decimal numbers there may be a different number of digits after each decimal point so it is up to the person doing the arithmetic to ensure the decimal points are aligned.

Related questions

How is adding decimals similar to adding whole numbers?

Adding whole numbers is the addition of decimals where the decimal part is zero; in both cases the digits are place value aligned meaning that the decimal points, which lies between the units (or ones) and tenths columns, are aligned - in the whole number the decimal point is "hiding" at the end.


What are the steps to adding decimals?

There is a system or strategy to adding them it is called DUD. Decimal Under Decimal 1.2 1.2+ 2.4 Now that's how you add decimals!!


How is adding decimals like adding whole numbers?

It can be same because it,s just the decimal


When do you need to write zero as a placeholder when adding and subtracting decimals?

Adding decimal same as adding whole numbers


Do you bring down the decimal in adding decimals?

i don't no i was asking this so this is your answer


When adding decimals do the decimal points have to be lined up?

It's a good idea.


When adding or subtracting decimals always do what?

First you write the decimals one under the other, in such as way that the decimal points are aligned.


How can decimals be added together?

When adding numbers with decimals always make sure the decimal points are lined up. That is the only way to be sure that the person will be adding them up right.


When adding or subtracting decimals the decimal point must be in line for all numbers?

Yes.


What happens to the decimal in adding and subtracting decimals?

When you are adding and subtracting decimals, youare +/- ing the whole numbers and tenths in the number. the decimal might go away ex: 1.3-0.3=1 or it won't ex: 1.9-0.3=1.6


What is the rule for significant figures when adding or subtracting decimals?

When adding and/or subtracting, your answer can only show as many decimal places as the measurement having the fewest number in the decimal places.


Do decimal points need to be lined up when adding and subtracting decimals?

Yes, unless you are an expert.