What is the opposite and reciprocal of 2 1/2?

1 Answer
Jun 24, 2015

The opposite of #2 1/2# is #- 1/2#.

The reciprocal of #2 1/2# is #2/5#.

Explanation:

The opposite of a number is its additive inverse, which means that its sign is reversed. A number and its additive inverse equal zero when added. The opposite of #2 1/2# is #-2 1/2#.

#2 1/2+(-2 1/2)=0#

In order to get the reciprocal of a mixed fraction, you must first convert it into an improper fraction. Then switch the numerator and denominator. The reciprocal of a number is its multiplicative inverse, which means that when they are multiplied, their product is #1#.

#2 1/2=5/2#

The reciprocal of #5/2# is #2/5#.

#5/2*2/5=1#