Number Decomposition: Breaking Down 54 into Tens and Units

Break down the number 54 into units and tens.

To solve this problem, let's understand the concept of place value in the given number:

• Step 1: Identify the tens digit. The number 54 has 5 in the tens place. This means it has 5 tens.
• Step 2: Identify the units digit. The number 54 has 4 in the units place. This represents 4 units.

By decomposing 54, we realize that it consists of 5 tens and 4 units. To validate this:

• The tens digit (5) indicates $5 \times 10 = 50$.
• The units digit (4) remains as it is, i.e., 4.
• Combining these values gives us the original number: $50 + 4 = 54$.

Considering the provided multiple-choice answers, Choice 3: "5 tens and 4 units" is correct as it accurately represents the decomposition of 54 using place value.

Therefore, the solution to the problem is 5 tens and 4 units.