Quick Answer: 7/8 as a decimal is 0.875.
It is a terminating decimal, meaning it ends and does not repeat.
What Is 7/8 as a Decimal?
To convert the fraction 7/8 into decimal form, divide the numerator by the denominator:
7 ÷ 8 = 0.875
The decimal 0.875 is exact and finite, making it suitable for precise calculations without rounding.
Step-by-Step: How to Convert 7/8 Into a Decimal
Method 1: Direct Division
Divide the numerator by the denominator:
7 ÷ 8 = 0.875
Method 2: Convert the Fraction to Thousandths
Since 8 × 125 = 1000, multiply both numerator and denominator by 125:
7 × 125 = 875
8 × 125 = 1000
So the fraction becomes:
875/1000 = 0.875
For the fraction conversion, check: What is 0.875 as a Fraction?
How to Verify That 7/8 = 0.875
Method 1: Multiply Back
0.875 × 8 = 7
This confirms the decimal conversion is correct.
Method 2: Prime Factor Rule
The denominator 8 contains only the prime factor 2, so the decimal must terminate.
Method 3: Calculator Check
Dividing 7 by 8 on any calculator gives 0.875 exactly.
Is 7/8 a Terminating or Repeating Decimal?
7/8 is a terminating decimal.
Why?
A fraction converts to a terminating decimal when its denominator has only 2 and/or 5 as prime factors.
Factorizing 8:
8 = 2 × 2 × 2
Since no other prime factors are involved, the decimal ends naturally.
Understanding the Size of 7/8
The decimal 0.875 means:
- The value is less than 1
- It represents seven-eighths of a whole
- It is equal to 87.5%
Fraction, Decimal, and Percentage Forms
| Form | Value |
| Fraction | 7/8 |
| Decimal | 0.875 |
| Percentage | 87.5% |
To convert to a percentage:
0.875 × 100 = 87.5%
Real-Life Examples and Uses of 7/8
In everyday use, people usually say 0.875 or 87.5%, while 7/8 appears in fractions, exact ratios, or measurements.
1. Carpentry and Construction
A board that is 7/8 inch thick has a thickness of 0.875 inches, a common measurement in woodworking.
2. Academic Scoring
Scoring 7 out of 8 on a test results in 0.875, often reported as 87.5%.
3. Battery or Charge Levels
A device charged to 7/8 capacity is at 87.5%, close to full charge.
4. Recipe Portions
Using 7/8 of a cup equals 0.875 cups, useful when adjusting recipes.
5. Probability and Statistics
If an event occurs 7 times out of 8, the probability is 0.875.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ❌ Writing 0.87 instead of 0.875
- ❌ Forgetting the third decimal place
- ❌ Assuming the decimal repeats
- ❌ Rounding when exact precision is required
Because 0.875 is exact, it should always be used as written.
FAQs About 7/8 as a Decimal
Is 7/8 a terminating decimal?
Yes. 7/8 equals 0.875, which is a terminating decimal.
Can 7/8 be written exactly as a decimal?
Yes. The decimal 0.875 is exact.
Why does 7/8 not repeat?
Because the denominator contains only the prime factor 2.
What is 7/8 as a percentage?
It equals 87.5%.
Final Answer Summary
- 7/8 as a decimal = 0.875
- It is a terminating decimal
- The value is exact and non-repeating
- Commonly used in measurements, percentages, and ratios
