Question

What is the reciprocal of 2 and 3/8

Answer 1

To find the reciprocal of a number or fraction, just flip the numerator and denominator. Whole numbers are always over 1. 

 2 = $\frac{2}{1}$

The reciprocal of $\frac{2}{1} = \frac{1}{2}$ or .5 (one-half)

The reciprocal of $\frac{3}{8} = \frac{8}{3}$

Answer 2

The correct answer is:

8/19.

Explanation:

2 3/8 can be written as 1 + 1 + 3/8. Each whole number 1 can then be written as a fraction, 8/8:

8/8 + 8/8 + 3/8 = 16/8 + 3/8 = 19/8

The reciprocal is found by flipping the fraction; this makes it 8/19.