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Introduction to the Concept

Dividing by 10, much like multiplying by 10, follows a recognizable pattern with numbers. Let’s dive in and explore this pattern, examining how dividing by 10 works and how it contrasts with multiplying by 10.

Basic Example: Dividing 30 by 10

Consider the number 30 divided by 10. Conceptually, this means dividing 30 into groups of 10. Breaking it down:

• One group of 10 equals 10.

• A second group of 10 equals 20.

• A third group of 10 equals 30.

Thus, 30 divided by 10 results in 3 groups.

Slightly More Complex Example: Dividing 110 by 10

Now, let’s look at 110 divided by 10:

• Counting groups of 10: 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100, and finally, 110.

• This results in 11 groups of 10.

Identifying the Pattern

From these examples, a pattern emerges:

• 30 divided by 10 equals 3.

• 110 divided by 10 equals 11.

Notice how the zero is effectively removed from the end of the original number in the quotient. This pattern holds true for multiplication as well but in reverse: multiplying by 10 adds a zero to the end of the number.

Advanced Example: Dividing 7,000 by 10

Using the pattern identified:

• 7,000 divided by 10 simply involves removing a zero, resulting in 700.

Place Value Insight

Dividing by 10 also shifts the place value of each digit to the right:

• 30 becomes 3.0.

• 7,000 becomes 700.

This shift is more than just dropping a zero; it's a movement along the place value chart.

Practical Application: Dividing 630 by 10

• 630 divided by 10 involves moving each digit one place to the right:600 (hundreds) becomes 60 (tens).
  30 (tens) becomes 3 (ones).
  Resulting in 63.
  

Conclusion

Whether you prefer thinking in terms of place value shifts or simply dropping a zero, dividing by 10 simplifies down to these easy-to-follow patterns. Practice using our resources to master this fundamental math concept!