Multiplication

In its most elementary form multiplication may be defined as repeated addition of whole numbers or integers.

For example, <math>2\times 3 </math> (spoken as "two times three") is the sum of 2 + 2 + 2.

In this example the numbers "2" and "3" are known as the factors and the result of a multiplication is known as the product.

Multiplication is a commutative operation in that A <math>\times</math> B = B <math>\times</math> A.

For example <math>3\times 2 </math> (spoken as "three times two") is the sum of 3 + 3 = 6.

Symbol

Several conventions are used to indicate multiplication.

• For simple numbers, the symbol (<math>\times</math>) used looks much like the letter "X", as in the examples above.
• Since the "X" looks like a letter, and letters are commonly used in algebra to indicate unknowns, or variables, the "dot" is frequently used: A &#149; B = B &#149; A.
• Alternatively a period may be used to denote multiplication
• Also, in algebraic use, quantities are simply juxtaposed to indicate that they are to be multiplied:

Y = 3aX + 4bZ

See also

• Multiplication Property of Equality
• Arithmetic