The Zero Trick
Multiplying numbers with zeros at the end is easier than you
think!
When numbers end with zeroes, you can use a special shortcut that makes multiplication much faster.
Instead of doing long multiplication, count the zeros and multiply the numbers that come before them.
How to Multiply Numbers with Trailing Zeroes
1️⃣ Count the zeros at the end of each number
2️⃣ Multiply the numbers that come before the zeros
3️⃣ Add all the zeros you counted to the end of your answer
Let's Practice Together!
Example 1: 30 × 400
Let's break it down:
1. Count the zeros: 30 has 1 zero, 400 has 2 zeros → Total 3 zeros
2. Multiply the numbers before zeros: 3 × 4 = 12
3. Add all 3 zeros to 12 → 12,000
Click to see the answer!
30 × 400 = 12,000
Great job! You just saved time by counting zeros instead of doing long multiplication!
Example 2: 500 × 6,000
Try this one yourself first!
1. How many zeros does 500 have?
2. How many zeros does 6,000 have?
3. Multiply 5 × 6 =
4. Now add all zeros (2 + 3 = 5 zeros) to get:
Parent Tips 🌟
- Real-world practice: Point out prices in stores (like $2.00 × 3 items) to show how this skill is used every day.
- Zero race: Make a game where your child races against a timer to solve multiplication problems with trailing zeros.
- Explain why it works: Show that 30 × 400 is the same as (3×10) × (4×100) = (3×4) × (10×100) = 12 × 1,000 = 12,000.