G S Rehill's Interactive Maths Software Series - "Building a Strong Foundation in Mathematics" from mathsteacher.com.au.

 

Year 7 Interactive Maths - Second Edition


The Reciprocal of a Number

1/3 is called the reciprocal of 3 and 3 is called the reciprocal of 1/3.

One number is the reciprocal of another if their product is 1.

For example, the reciprocal of 5/6 is 6/5 since 5/6 × 6/5 is 1.


In general:

The reciprocal of a fraction is obtained by interchanging the numerator and the denominator, i.e. by inverting the fraction.


Example 7

Find the reciprocal of 20.

Solution:
Reciprocal of 20 is 1/20.


Example 8

Find the reciprocal of 3/7.

Solution:
Reciprocal of 3/7 is 2 1/3.


Example 9

Find the reciprocal of 1 1/3.

Solution:
Reciprocal of 1 1/3 is 3/4.

Note:

To find the reciprocal of a mixed number, change it into an improper fraction and then invert it.


Key Term

reciprocal

 

Study Another Topic in Chapter 4: Fractions

Fractions ] Mixed Numbers ] Addition of Fractions ] Subtraction of Fractions ] Multiplication of Fractions ] [ The Reciprocal of a Number ] Division of Fractions ] Problem Solving Unit ] Symbols ] Index ]

 

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