Add or subtract as indicated. 28.73 - 3.12

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the operation to be performed: subtraction.
2. Align the numbers vertically by their decimal points: $28.73$ and $3.12$.
3. Subtract the digits in the hundredths place: $3-2$.
4. Subtract the digits in the tenths place: $7-1$.
5. Subtract the digits in the ones and tens places: $28-3$.

Key Concepts

Decimal Operations

Decimal operations involve performing arithmetic calculations with numbers that have decimal points. In this case, subtraction is the operation being performed. Understanding how to align decimal points and manage place values is crucial for accurate calculations.

Place Value

Place value refers to the value of a digit based on its position within a number. In decimal numbers, each position represents a power of ten, which is essential for correctly performing operations like addition and subtraction. Recognizing the significance of tenths, hundredths, and so on helps in maintaining accuracy.

Rounding and Estimation

Rounding and estimation are techniques used to simplify calculations or to check the reasonableness of an answer. While not directly required for the operation in this question, understanding these concepts can help students verify their results and develop a sense of numerical accuracy.