Inverse Operations Math Example 2

Follow the full solution, then compare it with the other examples linked below.

Example 2

medium
You start with a mystery number. You multiply it by 6 and get 54. Use the inverse operation to find the mystery number.

Solution

  1. 1
    Multiplication was applied: \(n \times 6 = 54\).
  2. 2
    The inverse of multiplication is division.
  3. 3
    Undo the multiplication: \(n = 54 \div 6\).
  4. 4
    \(54 \div 6 = 9\). The mystery number is 9.
  5. 5
    Check: \(9 \times 6 = 54\) ✓

Answer

9
To undo any operation, apply its inverse. Multiplication's inverse is division, so \(n = 54 \div 6 = 9\).

About Inverse Operations

Operations that undo each other: addition undoes subtraction, multiplication undoes division, and vice versa. Applying an operation followed by its inverse returns you to the starting value.

Learn more about Inverse Operations →

More Inverse Operations Examples

Example 1 easy

Show that adding and subtracting the same number leaves you where you started: start with 15, add 8,

Example 3 easy

Start with 20. Subtract 7, then add 7. What is the result? What property does this show?

Example 4 medium

A number divided by 4 equals 8. What is the number? Use inverse operations.

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