DECIMAL NUMBERS

How a number is read depends on where the decimal point is placed. The figure below is similar to the chart for large numbers in Section 1.1. The decimal point comes after the ones position. The numbers to the right of the decimals represent tenths (0.1), hundreds (0.01), thousands (0.001), and so on down to infinitesimally small numbers.

All whole numbers (called integers) have a decimal point at the end. For instance, 10 = 10., 24 = 24., and 17,801 = 17,801 = 17,801.0.
 

DIVISION: DIVIDING INTO SMALLER PARTS

Division is used to split groups up into smaller sections. Suppose there are 24 pairs of gloves in the storage locker and you want to distribute them evenly among 8 crewpeople. How many pairs of gloves would each crewperson receive. Dividing 24 by 8 yields 3; each crewperson would receive 3 pairs of gloves. Some words and symbols often seen in division are divided by, into, the symbol "÷",and the symbol "/".

MULTIPLICATION: A SHORTCUT TO REPEATED ADDITION

Multiplication is a simpler way of doing repeated addition. Suppose Ron can do 30 push-ups in one minute. If he maintained a steady pace, how many push-ups could he do in five minutes? You could add 30 + 30 + 30 + 30 + 30, or you could multiply 30 × 5 to arrive at the answer of 150 push-ups. Some words and symbols used in multiplication are times, the product of, the "×" sign, or a dot like "•". Sometimes numbers that are being multiplied will be put in parentheses (30)(5)=150. 

SUBTRACTION: COMPUTING A DIFFERENCE

Subtraction is used in two types of situations. The first is "How much is left?" and the second is "How much more is needed?" Some words used in subtraction are "minus", "take away", "less", and "difference".

Example 1 - How many are left? 
 

ADDITION: ADDING TO A SUM OR TOTAL

Addition is used when combining items, or putting items together to obtain a total. It helps answer questions such as "How many?" "How much?" or "How far?" Let's look at different ways that addition can be used. Some words used often to refer to addition are "plus", "and", "the sum of", "total", or "added to".

Example 1 - Pedro's crew has 4 pulaskis. Jane's crew has 6 pulaskis. How many pulaskis do they have together?

HOW TO READ LARGE NUMBERS

Numbers are separated into groups: ones, tens, hundreds, thousands, millions, and so on. Each group contains three subgroups: ones, tens, and hundreds. When writing or reading a large number, begin at the left with the largest group, and proceed to the right. For instance, 7,482 is read as seven thousand, four hundred, eighty-two. The following chart can help in reading large numbers.
 

INTRODUCTION

The material in this chapter describes the use of numbers in basic arithmetic, including addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, order of operation, exponents, rounding, significant digits, and decimal places. Fractions and ratios are also examined. A text description accompanies a graphic illustration and sample problem to explain each concept. Exercise problems give you a chance to practice your skills.

This online course provides knowledge of basic math concepts and tools necessary for making math calculations in the field. Topics include calculating tank volumes and flow rates, determining pump pressure and friction loss, understanding maps and location coordinates, and estimating slope. Additionally, the course presents information on calculating flame length, flame height, midflame windspeed, and other variables related to wildland firefighting efforts. This course is designed for wildland firefighters.

Instructions: