what is 60 percent of 120

Natashya

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24-12-2024

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Introduction:

Figuring out percentages can seem daunting, but it's a fundamental math skill with many real-world applications. This article will show you how to calculate 60 percent of 120, step-by-step, and explain the underlying concepts so you can tackle similar problems with confidence. Knowing how to calculate percentages is useful for things like discounts, sales tax, and understanding statistics. We'll tackle "what is 60 percent of 120?" in multiple ways.

Understanding Percentages

A percentage is a fraction expressed as a number out of 100. For example, 60% means 60 out of 100, or 60/100. This fraction can be simplified to 3/5.

Method 1: Converting Percentage to Decimal

This is the most common and straightforward method. We'll convert the percentage to a decimal and then multiply.

Steps:

1. Convert the percentage to a decimal: To convert 60% to a decimal, divide by 100: 60 / 100 = 0.60

2. Multiply the decimal by the number: Multiply the decimal (0.60) by the number you want to find the percentage of (120): 0.60 * 120 = 72

Therefore, 60 percent of 120 is $\boxed{72}$.

Method 2: Using Fractions

We can also solve this using fractions, based on our understanding of percentages as fractions.

Steps:

1. Express the percentage as a fraction: 60% can be written as the fraction 60/100.

2. Simplify the fraction (optional): 60/100 simplifies to 3/5.

3. Multiply the fraction by the number: Multiply the simplified fraction (3/5) by 120: (3/5) * 120 = 72

Again, we find that 60 percent of 120 is $\boxed{72}$.

Method 3: Proportion Method

This method sets up a proportion to solve for the unknown value.

Steps:

1. Set up a proportion: We can set up a proportion like this: x / 120 = 60 / 100, where 'x' represents the unknown value (60% of 120).

2. Cross-multiply: Cross-multiply to get: 100x = 7200

3. Solve for x: Divide both sides by 100: x = 7200 / 100 = 72

This confirms that 60 percent of 120 is $\boxed{72}$.

Real-World Examples

Understanding percentage calculations is valuable in many situations:

• Sales and Discounts: If an item is 60% off and costs $120, the discount is $72.
• Tax Calculations: Calculating sales tax on a purchase.
• Statistics and Data Analysis: Interpreting percentages in charts and graphs.
• Financial Calculations: Determining interest rates or profit margins.

Conclusion

Calculating percentages is a crucial skill applicable to various aspects of life. As demonstrated, there are several ways to determine that 60 percent of 120 is 72. Choose the method that you find easiest to understand and apply it to your calculations. Mastering percentage calculations will significantly improve your problem-solving abilities in many contexts. Remember that 60 percent of 120 will always equal 72, no matter the method used.