eighths

Eighths refer to the fraction with numerator one and denominator eight. They represent one part of eight equal parts of a whole. As a decimal, an eighth equals 0.125, and as a percentage, 12.5%.

In mathematics, fractions with denominator eight are written in the form n/8, where n is an integer. Examples include 1/8, 3/8, 5/8, and 7/8. Some eighths simplify when possible, such as 4/8 reducing to 1/2 and 2/8 reducing to 1/4. The set of eighths is a dyadic subdivision of unity and is commonly used in rounding and in contexts involving base-2 fractions.

In measurement, an eighth is used as a subdivision of larger units. For example, 1/8 inch equals 0.125 inch, and 3/8 inch equals 0.375 inch. In metric terms, 1/8 of a meter equals 125 millimeters. In practical disciplines such as carpentry and construction, eighths of an inch are a common subdivision on rulers and tapes.

In music, an eighth note (also called a quaver in some traditions) has half the duration of a quarter note. Two eighth notes fit into the time of one quarter note, and an eighth rest represents a silence of that same duration. Eighths are a fundamental rhythmic unit used across many musical genres and styles.

Overall, eighths function as a standard subdivision in mathematics, measurement, and the arts, providing a consistent way to divide a whole into eight equal parts.