The problem at hand is a straightforward subtraction operation, where we need to subtract 289.5 from 522. To approach this, we simply perform the subtraction as we would with any two numbers.
Subtraction Operation
The operation we are performing is 522 - 289.5. To solve this, we’ll follow the standard procedure for subtracting decimals, which involves aligning the decimal points and then subtracting the numbers as usual.
Step-by-Step Solution
First, we align the decimal points:
522.0
-289.5
——
Then, we perform the subtraction. Starting from the rightmost digit, we subtract each digit of the second number from the corresponding digit of the first number, taking care to borrow if necessary since we are dealing with decimals.
| Operation | Result |
|---|---|
| 522.0 - 289.5 | 232.5 |
This operation yields a result of 232.5.
Verifying the Result
To verify our result, we can add 289.5 back to 232.5. If our initial subtraction was correct, this addition should yield 522.
232.5 + 289.5 = 522
This confirmation step is essential in mathematics to ensure that our operations are correct, especially when dealing with decimals or more complex arithmetic operations.
Importance of Precision
Precision in arithmetic operations, including subtraction of decimals, is vital. Small errors can lead to significant discrepancies in results, especially in applications where exact numbers are crucial, such as finance, engineering, and science.
What is the first step in subtracting decimals?
+The first step is to align the decimal points of the two numbers you are subtracting. This ensures that you are subtracting the correct place values.
Why is verifying the result important?
+Verifying the result by performing the inverse operation (in this case, addition) helps ensure that the initial subtraction was correct. This is a good practice to avoid and detect errors in arithmetic operations.
In conclusion, subtracting 289.5 from 522 involves a straightforward subtraction operation, yielding a result of 232.5. This process highlights the importance of aligning decimal points and verifying results through inverse operations to ensure accuracy in arithmetic.
