a mathproblem when the decimal point is between two numbers does it mean to multiply or divide?

Answer 1

If it is a "decimal point" it means that the part of the number that comes after the point is meant as fractions, in powers of 10.

Example:

53.179 =
53 (easy part) PLUS
1/10 PLUS 7/100 + 9/1000

Since 1/10 = 100/1000 and 7/100 = 70/1000, you could replace the sum by
179/1000

However, for numbers with very long (or even infinite) decimal expansions, it is easier to think of each number as a fraction in powers of 10.

---

In the decimal system, all the numbers represent the number of "powers of ten" for their position (even before the decimal). In the example, 53.179 is really:
5 times 10 to power 1 (=50)
plus
3 times 10 to power 0 (=3) because any number to power 0 is 1.
1 times 10 to power -1 (=1/10) because negative powers indicate fractions: 10 to power -1 is the same as one over 10 to power 1.
etc.

-----

However, if you are talking about the "product" point: In higher math, the straight multiplication is shown by putting a point between the factors. This is to distinguish the various types of "multiplications" that can take place in certain systems (like in vector calculus). That particular point, when placed between two number (usually "fatter" and half-way up in height so that it is not confused with the decimal point), means a multiplication. The symbol "x" may mean a different type of multiplication.

Answer 2

No as this 3.14 does not mean multiply 3 times 14. However, in computer math 3*14 the asterisk would be the correct symbol for multiply. Usually in equations the multiplier symbol is implied and never even displayed. Like A = 3 (14 + 100 ) / 1 you would multiply 3 times the rest of the equation. Notice the forward slash represents divide.

Some people do put a middle dot on paper to signify multiplying but I don't think its standard. Like 3 ·14 · 100 but that's usually in Elementary School or Grade School math I think. Its not called a decimal point. You can call it middle dot, period, or just a dot. But adult mathematicians do it the implied way I mentioned above.

Answer 3

some countries use a dot for multiplication.
e.g.
4*5*6=4.5.6.........usually used if many nos
are multiplied.
but
5.36 would normally mean 5 point 36

Answer 4

It is division
say 5.36
=536/100
or 5.3
=53/10