Explain how to graph 5

2
on the number line.

A number line going from 0 to 3. There are 2 equals spaces between each number. The number line contains 0, point A is one-half, 1, point B is 1 and one-half, point C is between point B and 2, 2, point D is 2 and one-half, 3.

1 answer

To graph the number \( \frac{5}{2} \) (which is equivalent to \( 2.5 \)) on a number line that goes from 0 to 3, follow these steps:

  1. Understanding the Number Line: Your number line spans from 0 to 3, with equal spaces between whole numbers (0, 1, 2, 3). There are also points that represent fractions between these whole numbers:

    • Point A (0.5) is located halfway between 0 and 1.
    • Point B (1.5) is located halfway between 1 and 2 (also denoted as point B).
    • Point C is a little more than 1.5 but less than 2. For this example, instead of labeling it, just note that it lies between point B and 2.
    • Point D (2.5) is halfway between 2 and 3.
  2. Locating \( \frac{5}{2} \): Since \( \frac{5}{2} \) is the same as 2.5, you need to identify the point on the number line that corresponds to 2.5.

  3. Marking \( \frac{5}{2} \): On your number line:

    • Start from point 2, then move halfway to point 3 (which is point D). This halfway point is your \( \frac{5}{2} \) or 2.5.
  4. Graphing: You can represent \( \frac{5}{2} \) by placing a dot or marking a line above the number 2.5 on the number line.

By following these steps, the number \( \frac{5}{2} \) (or 2.5) will be accurately represented on the number line.