1.1: Properties of Real Numbers

Question 1

Opposite or Additive Inverse

Answer 1

The opposite or additive inverse of any a is -a. The sum of opposites is 0.

Question 2

Reciprocal or Multiplicative Inverse

Answer 2

The reciprocal or multiplicative inverse of any nonzero number a is 1/a. The product of reciprocals is 1.

Question 3

Absolute Value of A Real Number

Answer 3

The absolute value of a real number is its distance from zero on the number line.