Final answer:
The reciprocal of 19 is 1/19. This is calculated by dividing 1 by the number, which is a straightforward process and important for understanding how reciprocals reverse the process of division into multiplication in mathematics.
Step-by-step explanation:
The reciprocal of a number is simply the inverse of that number—instead of multiplying, you are effectively dividing, and vice versa. To find the reciprocal of any non-zero number, you divide 1 by that number. For example, let's find the reciprocal of 19 by using the formula for reciprocals, which is 1 divided by the number. By performing this division, we get:
Reciprocal of 19 = 1 / 19
Therefore, the reciprocal of 19 is 1/19. This concept is essential in operations involving fractions and can be helpful in converting division into multiplication problems, allowing for quicker mental calculations. The idea of using reciprocals can extend to complex mathematical applications such as managing powers or dealing with negative exponents.