Rational Number equations help

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the mathematical property that the product of a rational number and its multiplicative inverse equals 1, with the exception of zero. Participants clarify that zero does not have an inverse, making it a unique case. The rational number is represented as $$\frac{m}{n}$$, where $$m$$ and $$n$$ are integers and $$m$$ is not zero. This establishes the foundational understanding of rational numbers and their inverses in mathematics.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of rational numbers and their properties
  • Knowledge of multiplicative inverses and reciprocals
  • Familiarity with basic algebraic notation
  • Basic concepts of integers and their characteristics
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the properties of rational numbers in-depth
  • Learn about multiplicative inverses and their applications
  • Explore exceptions in mathematical operations, particularly with zero
  • Review algebraic expressions and their simplifications
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Students of mathematics, educators teaching algebra, and anyone seeking to understand the properties of rational numbers and their inverses.

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I have a question in math I need help with please:
Show that the product of a rational number and it's inverse is equal to 1, with one exception. what is the exception? can anyone help please?
 
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Paige said:
I have a question in math I need help with please:
Show that the product of a rational number and it's inverse is equal to 1, with one exception. what is the exception? can anyone help please?

zero is the exception as it does not have inverse
 
kaliprasad said:
zero is the exception as it does not have inverse

Thank you!

- - - Updated - - -

kaliprasad said:
zero is the exception as it does not have inverse

however, what is the product of the rational number and it's inverse?
 
We could choose to let the rational number be:

$$\frac{m}{n}$$ where $$m,n\in\mathbb{Z}\land m\ne0$$ (This just means $m$ and $n$ are integers, with $m$ not equal to zero.)

So, what would the multiplicative inverse, or reciprocal, of $m$ be?
 

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