A decimal point is a symbol used in mathematics to separate the whole number part from the fractional part of a number. It is typically represented as a dot (.) and is essential for expressing values that are not whole, such as money, measurements, or percentages. For example, in the number 3.14, the decimal point indicates that 3 is the whole number and 14 is the fractional part. In the decimal system, the position of digits to the right of the decimal point represents values less than one. Each position represents a power of ten, with the first position being tenths, the second being hundredths, and so on. This system allows for precise representation of values, making it easier to perform calculations and comparisons.