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# Definition of Multiplicative Inverse

Every real number, except for zero, has a multiplicative inverse. The multiplicative inverse of $x$ is the number you multiply $x$ by to get the multiplicative identity $1$ as the product.

The multiplicative inverse for a number $x \neq 0$ is equal to the reciprocal of $x$:

$x \times \dfrac{1}{x} = \dfrac{1}{x} \times x = 1.$

For example, the multiplicative inverse of $7$ is $\dfrac{1}{7}$, and the multiplicative inverse of $-3$ is $\dfrac{1}{-3}$.

So, the multiplicative inverse of an elephant is shown in the picture to the left. Elephants are real, aren't they?

### Description

The aim of this dictionary is to provide definitions to common mathematical terms. Students learn a new math skill every week at school, sometimes just before they start a new skill, if they want to look at what a specific term means, this is where this dictionary will become handy and a go-to guide for a student.

### Audience

Year 1 to Year 12 students

### Learning Objectives

Learn common math terms starting with letter M

Author: Subject Coach
Added on: 6th Feb 2018

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