Question

what justifies 2*1/2=1

Answer 1

2 and 1/2 are multiplicative inverses of each other

product of multiplicative inverses give multiplicative identity which is one (1)

Answer 2

well you might say 2 half's make a whole right?

Answer 3

ya but i think they are just learning about multiplicative identity etc right now

Answer 4

yes - i see your point - i'm just in a jocular mood at the moment....

Answer 5

wow nice :P

Answer 6

You can also think that multiplication is adding.
2* 1/2 is 2 times one half (or adding 1/2 two times: 1/2 + 1/2).
If you have half a cookie, and another half cookie, then you get 1 whole cookie.