Among four basic operations in arithmetic (Addition, Subtraction, Multiplication and Division), multiplication is one among them and it gives the product of two numbers. There is an inverse relationship between multiplication and division.

Consider the equation $\frac{54}{6}$ = 9 has inverse relationships:

6 $\times$ 9 = 54
9 $\times$ 6 = 54

We usually use an asterisk or cross ( * or x ) symbol to denote multiplication. Multiplication of decimals is normally done by ignoring the decimal points and then put the decimal point in the answer, it should have as many decimal places as the two original numbers combined.

How to Multiply Decimals?

When multiplying decimals follow the steps given below:
1. Multiply the numbers assuming they are whole numbers and do not place the decimal point.
2. As similar to whole numbers starting on the right multiply each digit in the top number by each digit in the bottom number and add the products.
3. Now put the decimal point in the answer and make sure it has as many decimal places as the two original numbers combined (sum).

Multiplying Decimals by Whole Numbers

Multiplying a decimal by a whole number will be same as multiplying two whole numbers:

If there is one digit after the decimal point in the question then there will be one digit after the decimal point in the answer.

If there are two digits after the decimal point in the question then there will be two digits after the decimal point in the answer.

So, in general if there are n decimal places in the decimal number being multiplied then place the decimal point n places from the right of the solution.

Examples of Multiplying Decimals

Solved Examples

Question 1: Multiply 0.04 $\times$ 0.111
Solution:

Ignore the decimal points
04 $\times$ 011
As zeroes add nothing to the value we multiply
4 $\times$ 11 = 44
The above two digits when combined gives 5 decimal digits so the product is 0.00044.

Question 2: Multiply 0.874 $\times$ 401
Solution:

Question 3: Calculate 7.563 $\times$ 8
Solution: