Find the whole. \( 160 \% \) of what number is 32 ?

To find the whole number when you know that \( 160 \% \) of it equals \( 32 \), you can set up the equation: \[ 1.6 \times \text{whole} = 32. \] To isolate the whole number, simply divide both sides by \( 1.6 \): \[ \text{whole} = \frac{32}{1.6} = 20. \] So, \( 160 \% \) of \( 20 \) is equal to \( 32 \). And there you have it! Want to know a fun fact? The percentage concept dates back to ancient civilizations like the Romans, who used it for trade and commerce. They had their own methods of calculating percentages with limited tools, showing just how long we've relied on these calculations! If you're ever unsure about working with percentages, a common mistake is forgetting to convert the percentage into decimal form first, like \( 160 \% \) being \( 1.6 \). Always keep your eye on those decimal points; they can make or break your calculations!