A whole number in expanded form is represented as the sum of each digit’s value according to its place—for example, ; zero digits contribute no value and may be omitted. This understanding connects the written numeral to powers of ten and prevents confusing a digit with its place value, within whole-number place values through millions; decimal expansions and more generalized algebraic forms are not included.
To write a whole number in expanded form, break it apart by the value of each digit. The value depends on the digit’s place: millions, hundred-thousands, ten-thousands, thousands, hundreds, tens, and ones.
Example: Write in expanded form.
Identify the value of each nonzero digit:
The digits are in the ten-thousands, hundreds, and ones places. They contribute , so they can be left out.
Add the place values:
The expanded form shows what each digit is worth, not just what the digit is.
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