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Understanding the Pattern

Multiplying by 10 creates a neat pattern that can be understood by breaking down simple multiplication problems. Let’s explore this pattern with a few examples:

Example 1: 2 x 10

Two times ten means we have two 10s, which we can think of as 10 + 10 = 20. Notice how the result, 20, is simply the original number 2 with a zero added at the end.

Example 2: 5 x 10

Similarly, five times ten means we have five 10s: 10 + 10 + 10 + 10 + 10 = 50. Here again, the result is the original number 5 with a zero added at the end.

Example 3: 13 x 10

For a slightly more complex example, thirteen times ten means we have thirteen 10s. Counting all the way up gives us 130, or simply the original number 13 with a zero added at the end.

The General Pattern

From the examples above, we see that multiplying any whole number by 10 involves keeping the original number and adding a zero to the end. This pattern holds for any whole number, making it a quick and easy way to multiply by 10.

Place Value Perspective

Another way to understand multiplying by 10 is through place value. When you multiply a number by 10, each digit shifts one place value to the left. For instance, multiplying 2 by 10 moves the digit from the ones place to the tens place, making it 20. Similarly, multiplying 723 by 10 shifts each digit to the left, resulting in 7230.

Practice Problems

Let's try a few more examples to solidify our understanding:

• 49 x 10: Here, 49 becomes 490.

• 723 x 10: Here, 723 becomes 7230.

Conclusion

Whether you think about multiplying by 10 as adding a zero to the end of a number or shifting each digit one place to the left, the pattern remains consistent. This understanding makes solving these problems straightforward and quick.

For more practice, don’t forget to download our flashcards or watch our practice video. Keep practicing, and you'll master multiplying whole numbers by 10 in no time!