Calculate the Sum: 2.1012 + 3.212 Decimal Addition

Decimal Addition with Different Place Values

Solve the following exercise:

2.1012+3.212

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Step-by-step video solution

Watch the teacher solve the problem with clear explanations
00:07 Alright, let's solve this problem together.
00:10 First, put zero in the right spot, and place the decimal point carefully.
00:15 Next, connect the points as needed.
00:28 And there you have it, that's how we find the solution!

Step-by-step written solution

Follow each step carefully to understand the complete solution
1

Understand the problem

Solve the following exercise:

2.1012+3.212

2

Step-by-step solution

To avoid confusion in solving the exercise, we'll first add the digit 0 to the number 3.212 in the following way:

2.1012+3.2120 2.1012\\+3.2120\\

Now let's solve the exercise in order:

Let's multiply the ten-thousandths after the decimal point:

2+0=2 2+0=2

Let's multiply the thousandths after the decimal point:

1+2=3 1+2=3

Let's multiply the hundredths after the decimal point:

0+1=1 0+1=1

Let's multiply the tenths after the decimal point:

1+2=3 1+2=3

Finally, let's multiply the whole numbers before the decimal point:

2+3=5 2+3=5

And we obtain the following:

2.1012+3.21205.3132 2.1012\\+3.2120\\5.3132

3

Final Answer

5.3132

Key Points to Remember

Essential concepts to master this topic
  • Alignment: Line up decimal points to match place values correctly
  • Technique: Add zeros like 3.212 → 3.2120 for equal decimal places
  • Check: Count decimal places: 4 places in both numbers = 4 places in answer ✓

Common Mistakes

Avoid these frequent errors
  • Adding decimals without aligning place values
    Don't just line up the right edges like whole numbers = wrong digit positions! This puts tenths with hundredths and creates incorrect sums. Always align the decimal points first, then add zeros to make equal decimal places.

Practice Quiz

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FAQ

Everything you need to know about this question

Why do I need to add a zero to 3.212?

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Adding zeros helps you line up place values correctly. When you write 3.212 as 3.2120, you can clearly see that 2.1012 + 3.2120 aligns perfectly for column addition.

Does adding zeros change the value of the number?

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No! Adding zeros to the right of a decimal doesn't change the value. 3.212 = 3.2120 = 3.21200. It's like saying 5 dollars equals 5 dollars and 0 cents.

How do I know which decimal has more places?

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Count the digits after the decimal point. 2.1012 has 4 decimal places, while 3.212 has 3 decimal places. Always match the shorter one to the longer one.

What if I forget to align the decimal points?

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Your answer will be completely wrong! For example, if you don't align properly, you might get 5.3213 instead of the correct answer 5.3132. Always double-check your alignment.

Can I add decimals from left to right instead?

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It's much easier to add from right to left (smallest place value first), just like with whole numbers. This prevents confusion and makes carrying over simpler.

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