what is 25 of 170

Natasha willow

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16-01-2025

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What is 25% of 170? A Step-by-Step Guide

Finding a percentage of a number is a common mathematical task. This article will guide you through calculating 25% of 170, explaining the process clearly and providing alternative methods. Understanding this calculation is useful in various everyday situations, from calculating discounts to determining proportions.

Understanding Percentages

Before diving into the calculation, let's briefly recap what percentages represent. A percentage is a fraction out of 100. For example, 25% means 25 out of 100, which can be written as the fraction 25/100 or the decimal 0.25.

Method 1: Using Decimal Conversion

The most straightforward method involves converting the percentage to a decimal and then multiplying.

1. Convert the percentage to a decimal: 25% is equivalent to 0.25 (divide 25 by 100).

2. Multiply the decimal by the number: 0.25 * 170 = 42.5

Therefore, 25% of 170 is $\boxed{42.5}$.

Method 2: Using Fractions

Percentages can also be expressed as fractions.

1. Express the percentage as a fraction: 25% is equivalent to 25/100. This fraction simplifies to 1/4.

2. Multiply the fraction by the number: (1/4) * 170 = 170/4

3. Simplify the fraction: 170 divided by 4 equals 42.5

Again, we arrive at the answer: 25% of 170 is $\boxed{42.5}$.

Method 3: Using Proportions

You can also solve this using proportions. We set up a proportion where x represents the unknown value (25% of 170):

25/100 = x/170

Cross-multiply: 25 * 170 = 100 * x

4250 = 100x

Divide both sides by 100: x = 42.5

This confirms that 25% of 170 is $\boxed{42.5}$.

Real-World Applications

Understanding percentage calculations is crucial in various real-world scenarios:

• Sales and discounts: Calculating the price reduction during a 25% off sale.
• Tip calculations: Determining the appropriate tip amount in a restaurant.
• Commission: Calculating earnings based on a percentage of sales.
• Financial analysis: Understanding growth rates and returns on investments.

Conclusion

Calculating 25% of 170 is a simple yet fundamental percentage problem. Whether you use the decimal method, the fraction method, or proportions, the answer remains the same: 42.5. Mastering this calculation provides a solid foundation for tackling more complex percentage problems in various contexts.