answersLogoWhite

0

A reciprocal is 1 divided by a number.

So, the reciprocal of x is 1/x.

For example:

The reciprocal of 2 is 1/2 is 0.5

The reciprocal of 9 is 1/9 is 0.111111111111

The reciprocal of 0.5 is 1/0.5 is 2.

To divide one by a number is called 'taking the reciprocal.'

If you have a fraction, taking the reciprocal is fairly easy: simply 'flip' it. I.e., put the numerator in the denominator, and the denominator in the numerator.

For example:

The reciprocal of 2/3 is 3/2

The reciprocal of 7/8 is 8/7

The reciprocal of 1/4 is 4 (/1).

The technical mathematical definition of the reciprocal of x is: "The number which, when multiplied by x, gives one."

User Avatar

Wiki User

12y ago

Still curious? Ask our experts.

Chat with our AI personalities

SteveSteve
Knowledge is a journey, you know? We'll get there.
Chat with Steve
ProfessorProfessor
I will give you the most educated answer.
Chat with Professor
ViviVivi
Your ride-or-die bestie who's seen you through every high and low.
Chat with Vivi

Add your answer:

Earn +20 pts
Q: What does reciprocal mean in math?
Write your answer...
Submit
Still have questions?
magnify glass
imp