Inverse ratio: What is the inverse (reciprocal) ratio of 17 : 19?

Introduction / Context:
The inverse (or reciprocal) ratio of a : b is b : a. These appear in proportion manipulations, especially when converting between direct and inverse relationships.

Given Data / Assumptions:
Ratio given = 17 : 19.

Concept / Approach:
Inverse ratio simply swaps the order: a : b → b : a. No further computation is needed unless simplification is required.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Given 17 : 19. Inverse ratio = 19 : 17.

Verification / Alternative check:
17/19 ≈ 0.8947; the reciprocal is 19/17 ≈ 1.1176, which is indeed the inverse ratio expressed as a fraction.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
18 : 17 and 17 : 18 change the numbers; 19 : 5 is unrelated; 1 : 1 would be the inverse only if a = b.

Common Pitfalls:
Confusing inverse ratio with subtracting or adding terms. Inversion is a swap, not an arithmetic operation on terms.

Final Answer:
19 : 17