dekimaalset

Dekimaalset refers to the decimal numeral system, a base-10 positional numeral system that uses ten digits, typically 0 through 9. In this system, the value of a digit depends on its place, with each position representing a power of ten. For example, in the integer 1234 the digits represent 1×10^3, 2×10^2, 3×10^1 and 4×10^0. Decimal notation also covers fractions, where digits after the decimal point denote negative powers of ten.

A decimal number is usually written with a separator between the integer and fractional parts. In many European languages the separator is a comma, while in English and international contexts a decimal point is used. Examples include 1234, 12.34 or 0,56, depending on regional conventions. Decimal fractions enable precise representation of non-integer quantities and form the basis of everyday arithmetic and measurement.

Historically, the decimal system stems from Hindu-Arabic numerals, with zero as a placeholder and the place-value concept. It spread to the Islamic world and later to Europe, where it became dominant by the early modern period. Its efficiency for calculation and commerce contributed to its global adoption and integration into education, science and technology.

In contemporary use, the decimal system underpins most arithmetic, scientific notation and financial calculations. While computers perform operations in binary, decimal notation remains essential for human input, output and decimal-focused arithmetic, including decimal floating-point and financial software. See also numeral systems and Hindu-Arabic numerals.