Determining a specific percentage of a whole number is a fundamental mathematical operation with broad practical applications. In the context of finding 2.5% of 100, the process involves converting the percentage into a decimal and then multiplying it by the whole number. The decimal equivalent of 2.5% is obtained by dividing 2.5 by 100, resulting in 0.025. Multiplying 0.025 by 100 yields the result, which is 2.5.
The ability to perform this calculation is crucial in various domains, from finance and commerce to statistics and everyday life. For instance, it can be used to calculate discounts, interest rates, or proportional shares. Historically, understanding percentages has been essential for trade, taxation, and economic planning, facilitating informed decision-making and resource allocation.