Final answer:
Long division is a mathematical process for dividing larger numbers by breaking down the problem into smaller division, multiplication, and subtraction steps. Two examples provided illustrate the method, where numbers like 267 divided by 3 result in 89, and 528 divided by 6 results in 88.
Step-by-step explanation:
Long division is a method used for dividing larger numbers that cannot be easily divided in your head. The process of long division converts complex division problems into a series of simpler steps that involve division, multiplication, and subtraction repeatedly. To help students understand the process, let's look at a couple of examples of long division.
Example 1:
- Divide 267 by 3.
- Start by dividing the first digit of the dividend (2) by the divisor (3), which does not go evenly. Move to the first two digits (26).
- 26 divided by 3 goes 8 times with a remainder of 2.
- Multiply the quotient (8) by the divisor (3) and write that product (24) under the 26. Subtract this from 26, leaving a remainder of 2 with the next digit (7) brought down.
- Now divide 27 by 3, which goes 9 times evenly. Place the 9 in the quotient next to the 8.
- Multiply 9 by the divisor (3) and write 27 under the 27 that was brought down, subtract to confirm there is no remainder.
- The final answer is 89 with no remainder.
Example 2:
- Divide 528 by 6.
- Start with the first digit (5) and divide by 6, which doesn't go evenly. Move to the first two digits (52).
- 52 divided by 6 goes 8 times with a remainder of 4.
- Multiply 8 by 6 (the divisor) and write 48 under the 52. Subtract 48 from 52 to get a remainder of 4, then bring down the next digit (8).
- With 48 brought down, divide 48 by 6 to get 8 with no remainder.
- Write the 8 in the quotient space, showing that 528 divided by 6 equals 88.
Through these steps, students can tackle complex division questions by breaking them down into manageable parts and systematically solving them.