Comparing Decimals: Is 1.5 Equal to 1.50?

Decimal Equality with Trailing Zeros

Are the fractions equal?

1.5=?1.50 1.5 \stackrel{?}{=} 1.50

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Step-by-step written solution

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1

Understand the problem

Are the fractions equal?

1.5=?1.50 1.5 \stackrel{?}{=} 1.50

2

Step-by-step solution

The question asks if the decimal numbers 1.5 1.5 and 1.50 1.50 are equal. When dealing with decimals, trailing zeros are not necessary for determining equality. In the case of the given numbers, 1.5 1.5 is exactly equal to 1.50 1.50 because the trailing zero in 1.50 1.50 does not alter its value. Thus, the fractions are indeed equal.

3

Final Answer

= =

Key Points to Remember

Essential concepts to master this topic
  • Rule: Trailing zeros after decimal point don't change value
  • Technique: Compare place values: 1.5 = 1.50 = 15/10
  • Check: Convert to fractions: 15/10 = 150/100 = same value ✓

Common Mistakes

Avoid these frequent errors
  • Thinking trailing zeros make decimals unequal
    Don't think 1.5 ≠ 1.50 because they look different = wrong conclusion! The zero is just a placeholder that doesn't add value. Always focus on the actual digit values, not the number of decimal places.

Practice Quiz

Test your knowledge with interactive questions

Which decimal number is greater?

FAQ

Everything you need to know about this question

Why doesn't the extra zero in 1.50 make it bigger?

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The zero is in the hundredths place but adds no value! Think of it like saying 'I have 5 apples and 0 extra apples' - you still have just 5 apples.

How can I tell if two decimals are equal?

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Line up the decimal points and compare digit by digit. If one decimal is shorter, imagine invisible zeros at the end: 1.5 becomes 1.50.

When should I write trailing zeros?

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In money ($1.50), measurements requiring precision, or when showing your work. For basic math equality, trailing zeros are optional but don't change the value.

Can I remove zeros from the middle of a decimal?

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No! Only trailing zeros (at the end) can be removed. The zero in 1.05 is important - removing it gives 1.5, which is completely different!

What if I'm comparing 1.5 and 1.500?

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Still equal! You can add as many trailing zeros as you want: 1.5 = 1.50 = 1.500 = 1.5000. They all represent the same value.

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