Compatible Number

Definition of Compatible Number

• Compatible numbers are numbers that are close in value to the actual numbers and easy to add, subtract, multiply, or divide mentally.
• They are useful in estimating the sum, difference, product, or quotient.

Examples of Compatible Number

• Estimate 13 ÷ 3.6.

To estimate the quotient, choose the compatible  numbers 12 and 4 as 12 and 4 are compatible with each other. Also notice that 12 is closer to 13 and 4 is closer to 3.6.

 

Solved Example on Compatible Number

Find the value of 61 × 5.8.

Choices:

A. 360

B. 300

C. 65

D. 10

Correct Answer: A

Solution:

Step 1: Compatible numbers for 61 and 5.8 are 60 and 6 respectively.

Step 2: So, 61 × 5.8 = 60 × 6 = 360.

Related Terms for Compatible Number

• Estimation
• Sum
• Product
• Difference
• Quotient

 

Additional Links for Compatible Number

• Click here for samples
• Back to Mathematics Dictionary