What Is 500 Divided By 8?

The Basics of Division

Division is a fundamental arithmetic operation that involves splitting a quantity into smaller equal parts. It is the inverse of multiplication, and is typically represented using the ÷ symbol or a forward slash (/).

Understanding the Problem

When we say “500 divided by 8,” we are essentially asking how many times the number 8 can fit into 500. This is a classic division problem that requires dividing the dividend (500) by the divisor (8) to obtain the quotient (the answer).

The Solution

So, what is the answer to 500 divided by 8? The answer is 62.5. This means that the number 8 can fit into 500 exactly 62.5 times. In other words, if we divide 500 by 8, we get the quotient 62.5.

Breaking it Down

To arrive at the answer, we can use long division, which involves dividing the dividend (500) by the divisor (8) one digit at a time. Here’s how it works: – First, we place the dividend (500) under the division symbol (÷) and the divisor (8) outside the symbol. – Next, we ask ourselves how many times 8 can fit into 5. Since 8 is larger than 5, it cannot fit into it even once, so we carry over the next digit (0) from the dividend and place it next to the 5, making it 50. – We then ask ourselves how many times 8 can fit into 50. The answer is 6, so we write 6 above the 0. – We then multiply 8 by 6 to get 48, and subtract 48 from 50 to get 2. We bring down the next digit (0) from the dividend and place it next to the 2, making it 20. – We then ask ourselves how many times 8 can fit into 20. The answer is 2, so we write 2 above the 0. – We then multiply 8 by 2 to get 16, and subtract 16 from 20 to get 4. We bring down the next digit (0) from the dividend and place it next to the 4, making it 40. – We then ask ourselves how many times 8 can fit into 40. The answer is 5, so we write 5 above the 0. – We then multiply 8 by 5 to get 40, and subtract 40 from 40 to get 0. This means that there is no remainder, and our quotient is 62.5.

Why is this Important?

Understanding division is essential in many areas of life, from basic math skills to more complex calculations in fields such as science, engineering, and finance. It is also a key component of problem-solving and critical thinking, helping us to break down complex tasks into smaller, more manageable parts.

Real-World Applications

Knowing how to divide numbers can be useful in many real-world situations, such as: – Calculating the cost per unit of a product or service – Figuring out how much to tip at a restaurant – Determining how much paint or wallpaper is needed to cover a room – Splitting expenses among friends or family members – Calculating the average score on a test or exam

Conclusion

In summary, 500 divided by 8 is equal to 62.5. Division is a fundamental arithmetic operation that involves splitting a quantity into smaller equal parts, and is essential in many areas of life. By understanding how to divide numbers, we can become better problem-solvers and critical thinkers, and apply our knowledge to a variety of real-world situations.