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The decimal system is a base-10 numbering system, which means it uses ten symbols, typically the digits 0 through 9, to represent numbers. It is the most commonly used system in the world today, largely due to its simplicity and ease of use.

The decimal system is additive, meaning that each digit in a number represents a value based on its position. The rightmost digit represents ones, the next digit to the left represents tens, the next represents hundreds, and so on. For example, in the number 2345, the 5 represents 5 ones, the 4 represents 4 tens (or 40), the 3 represents 3 hundreds (or 300), and the 2 represents 2 thousands (or 2000).

The decimal system also uses a decimal point to represent fractions. The digit immediately to the right of the decimal point represents tenths, the next digit represents hundredths, and so on. For example, in the number 12.34, the 3 represents 3 tenths (or 0.3), and the 4 represents 4 hundredths (or 0.04).

The decimal system is often contrasted with other numbering systems, such as binary (base-2), octal (base-8), and hexadecimal (base-16). Each of these systems has its own set of symbols and rules for representing numbers.

The decimal system has been in use for thousands of years, with evidence of its use dating back to ancient civilizations such as the Babylonians and Egyptians. It is likely that the decimal system originated from the number of fingers on a human hand, which is ten.

Today, the decimal system is used in a wide variety of contexts, from simple arithmetic to complex mathematical calculations. It is also used in many other areas of life, such as measurement, currency, and timekeeping. Despite its widespread use, the decimal system is not without its critics, who argue that it is not the most efficient or intuitive numbering system. However, its simplicity and familiarity make it a practical choice for most people and cultures.