Division as The Inverse of Multiplication

In division as the inverse of multiplication, let a and b be two whole numbers. Dividing a by b means finding a whole number which when multiplied by b gives a and we writea ÷ b = c.

Thus, a ÷ b = c or a = b × c

For example:

Divide 28 by 7 means finding a whole number which when multiplied by 7 gives 28. Clearly, such a number is 4. So, we write 28 ÷ 7 = 4.

Similarly, we have

12 ÷ 4 = 3, since 4 × 3 = 12

35 ÷ 5 = 7, since 5 × 7 = 35

2 ÷ 1 = 2, since 2 × 1 = 2

15 ÷ 15 = 1, since 15 × 1 = 15

42 ÷ 6 = 7, since 6 × 7 = 42

Note:

If a and b are two whole numbers, then a ÷ b is also expressed as a/b.

Thus, a ÷ b = c or a = bc, which can also be written as

a/b = c or a = b × c.

● Whole Numbers

The Number Zero

Properties of Whole Numbers

Successor and Predecessor

Representation of Whole Numbers on Number Line