The Mathematical Symbol "Circled Asterisk Operator (⊛)"
The ⊛ Symbol in Mathematics: Circled Asterisk Operator
While many are familiar with standard mathematical symbols, there exists a vast array of unique and specialized notations that cater to specific purposes. One such notation is the ⊛ symbol, recognized as the "Circled Asterisk Operator".
Usage
The ⊛ symbol often appears in advanced mathematical contexts or specialized areas. By combining an asterisk with a circle, this symbol can represent operations or concepts that are different or related to the standard multiplication operation denoted by an asterisk.
Examples
- Example 1: In certain algebraic structures or mathematical contexts:
\( a ⊛ b \)
This might imply a specific operation defined over the elements \( a \) and \( b \), which has certain properties or constraints distinct from regular multiplication. - Example 2: In graph theory or network analysis:
Given nodes \( A \) and \( B \), the expression \( A ⊛ B \)
could symbolize a specialized form of connection or relation between these nodes, different from standard edges or links.
In summary, the ⊛ symbol, although not a mainstay in elementary mathematics, finds its place in specialized fields, adding another layer of depth to mathematical expression. Grasping the nuances of such symbols becomes essential when exploring advanced domains or specific areas of research.

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Codes for the ⊛ Symbol
The Symbol | ⊛ | |
Alt Code | Alt 8859 | |
HTML Code | ⊛ | |
HTML Entity | ⊛ | |
CSS Code | \229B | |
Hex Code | ⊛ | |
Unicode | U+229B |
How To Insert the ⊛ Symbol
(Method 1) Copy and paste the symbol.
The easiest way to get the ⊛ symbol is to copy and paste it into your document.Bear in mind that this is a UTF-8 encoded character. It must be encoded as UTF-8 at all stages (copying, replacing, editing, pasting), otherwise it will render as random characters or the dreaded �.
(Method 2) Use the "Alt Code."
If you have a keyboard with a numeric pad, you can use this method. Simply hold down the Alt key and type 8859. When you lift the Alt key, the symbol appears. ("Num Lock" must be on.)(Method 3) Use the HTML Decimal Code (for webpages).
HTML Text | Output |
---|---|
<b>My symbol: ⊛</b> | My symbol: ⊛ |
(Method 4) Use the HTML Entity Code (for webpages).
HTML Text | Output |
---|---|
<b>My symbol: ⊛</b> | My symbol: ⊛ |
(Method 5) Use the CSS Code (for webpages).
CSS and HTML Text | Output |
---|---|
<style> span:after { content: "\229B";} </style> <span>My symbol:</span> | My symbol: ⊛ |
(Method 6) Use the HTML Hex Code (for webpages and HTML canvas).
HTML Text | Output |
---|---|
<b>My symbol: ⊛</b> | My symbol: ⊛ |
JavaScript Text |
---|
const x = "0x"+"E9" ctx.fillText(String.fromCodePoint(x), 5, 5); |
Output |
⊛ |
(Method 7) Use the Unicode (for various, e.g. Microsoft Office, JavaScript, Perl).
The Unicode for ⊛ is U+229B. The important part is the hexadecimal number after the U+, which is used in various formats. For example, in Microsoft Office applications (e.g. Word, PowerPoint), do the following:Type | Output |
---|---|
229B [Hold down Alt] [Press x] | ⊛ (The 229B turns into ⊛. Note that you can omit any leading zeros.) |
JavaScript Text | Output |
---|---|
let str = "\u229B" document.write("My symbol: " + str) | My symbol: ⊛ |