If x is inversely proportional to y and x = 2$\frac{1}{2}$ when y = 2, find x if y = 4

Analyze the question: x is inversely proportional to y, with x = 2½ when y = 2. We need x when y = 4.

Concept: Inverse proportion means x = k/y, so xy = k, a constant.

Solution:

1. Find k using the first pair of values: k = xy = 2½ × 2 = 5

2. Use k to find x when y = 4: x = k/y = 5/4 = 1¼

Check: Doubling y from 2 to 4 should halve x. Half of 2½ is 1¼. ✓

Answer: C. 1¼

Tip: For inverse proportion, if y is multiplied by a number, x is divided by that same number. Here y doubled, so x halved. You can often skip finding k and just do this in your head.