3. Which number below is the smatlest? \( \begin{array}{ll}\text { A. } 412.261 & \text { B. } 412.19 \\ \text { C. } 412.04 & \text { D. } 412.038\end{array} \)

To determine which number is the smallest, we compare the digits starting from the left. All options begin with "412," so we can focus on the decimal parts: .261, .19, .04, and .038. Among these, .038 is the smallest decimal value. Therefore, option D, 412.038, is the smallest number of the given choices! In the world of decimals, every digit holds power! When determining the smallest number, always pay attention to the digits after the decimal point. A good strategy is to line up the numbers and see which decimal has the smallest value. It makes comparison much easier!