Decimal Movement in 512.4156: Positioning 6 in Hundredths Place

Question


How many places to the right should the decimal point be moved in the number 512.4156 in order that the 6 becomes the hundredths digit?

Step-by-Step Solution

We are tasked with moving the decimal point so that '6' occupies the hundredths place. Here’s how we accomplish this:

  • Currently, the number is 512.4156. The placement of digits relative to the decimal point is important.
  • The '6' is initially the fourth digit to the right of the decimal:
    512.4156, where '6' is in the 10410^{-4} place (ten thousandths place).
  • The hundredths place is the second digit to the right of the decimal point.
  • First, move the decimal from 512.4156 to 5124.156. This places '6' in the tenths place.
  • Next, move the decimal again from 5124.156 to 51241.56. This sets '6' in the hundredths place.

Hence, we moved the decimal point 2 places to the right. The correct answer is 2 2 .

Answer

2