Decimal Detective: How to Find Numbers with a Specific Sum or Difference
In many mathematical and real-world scenarios, we might need to identify or choose decimals that, when added or subtracted, result in a specific sum or difference. This skill is essential for problem-solving and analytical thinking. Let's explore how to approach such problems.

Choosing Decimals with a Specific Sum or Difference
Example 1: Finding Decimals with a Specific Sum
Which two numbers from the set \{2.5, 3.4, 4.1, 5.6\} have a sum of \(7.9\)?
Solution Process:
1. Start by adding the first number to each of the other numbers in the set.
2. If the sum doesn’t match, move to the next number and repeat.
Answer:
The numbers \(3.4\) and \(4.5\) have a sum of \(7.9\).
The Absolute Best Book for 5th Grade Students
Example 2: Identifying Decimals with a Specific Difference
From the set \{8.2, 6.5, 5.7, 4.3\}, which two numbers have a difference of \(1.9\)?
Solution Process:
1. Start by subtracting the first number from each of the other numbers in the set.
2. If the difference doesn’t match, move to the next number and repeat.
Answer:
The numbers \(8.2\) and \(6.3\) have a difference of \(1.9\).
Choosing decimals with a specific sum or difference requires a systematic approach and careful calculations. By understanding the relationships between numbers and practicing regularly, you can quickly identify the correct pairs of numbers that meet the given criteria. This skill not only enhances your mathematical prowess but also sharpens your analytical thinking, making you adept at solving a wide range of problems with ease!
Practice Questions:
1. From the set \{1.2, 2.4, 3.4, 4.5\}, which two numbers have a sum of \(5.7\)?
2. Which two numbers from \{7.8, 6.7, 5.6, 4.5\} have a difference of \(2.1\)?
3. From the set \{0.9, 1.8, 2.7, 3.6\}, identify the numbers with a sum of \(4.5\).
4. Which two numbers from \{9.1, 8.2, 7.3, 6.4\} have a difference of \(0.9\)?
5. From the set \{0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4\}, find the numbers with a sum of \(0.5\).
A Perfect Book for Grade 5 Math Word Problems!

Answers:
1. \(1.2\) and \(4.5\)
2. \(7.8\) and \(5.7\)
3. \(0.9\) and \(3.6\)
4. \(9.1\) and \(8.2\)
5. \(0.1\) and \(0.4\)
The Best Math Books for Elementary Students
Related to This Article
More math articles
- 8th Grade RICAS Math Worksheets: FREE & Printable
- The Role Played by Infinity in Limits
- FREE TASC Math Practice Test
- How to Write Linear Equations From Y-Intercept and A Slope
- Top 10 7th Grade FSA Math Practice Questions
- Exploring the Alternating Series Test: Convergence and Divergence
- ISEE Middle-Level Math Worksheets: FREE & Printable
- 6th Grade Scantron Math Worksheets: FREE & Printable
- How to Use Number Lines to Graph Fractions as Decimals
- A Comprehensive Collection of Free HSPT Math Practice Tests
What people say about "Decimal Detective: How to Find Numbers with a Specific Sum or Difference - Effortless Math: We Help Students Learn to LOVE Mathematics"?
No one replied yet.