Multiplication Sign

The Mathematical Symbol "Multiplication Sign (×)"

The × Symbol in Mathematics: Multiplication Sign

The realm of mathematics is replete with symbols, each bearing its own significance. One of the most recognizable and widely used symbols is the ×, commonly referred to as the "Multiplication Sign". This article provides insight into the use and importance of the × symbol, along with pertinent examples.

Usage

The × symbol straightforwardly denotes multiplication, an elementary arithmetic operation. It signifies the operation of finding the total of one number taken a specified number of times. This symbol is ubiquitously used in various levels of mathematics, from basic arithmetic to higher-order calculations.

Examples

• Example 1: Basic Arithmetic: If you have 3 groups of 4 items each, the total number of items can be calculated as:
  3 × 4 = 12
  Here, the × symbol denotes the multiplication of 3 and 4.
• Example 2: Algebraic Expressions: Multiplication is often implied in algebra, but the × symbol can be used for clarity, especially when dealing with numbers and variables together. For instance:
  2 × x × y = 2xy
  The × symbol makes the multiplicative relationship between the terms explicit.

In summary, the × symbol is foundational in mathematics, representing the multiplication operation. Its common nature ensures that it remains a staple in mathematical notation, facilitating clear communication and understanding across various mathematical contexts.

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Codes for the × Symbol

The Symbol	×	copy
Alt Code	Alt 0215	copy
HTML Code	×	copy
HTML Entity	×	copy
CSS Code	\00D7	copy
Hex Code	×	copy
Unicode	U+00D7	copy

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 0215. 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: &#215;</b>	My symbol: ×

(Method 4) Use the HTML Entity Code (for webpages).

HTML Text	Output
<b>My symbol: &times;</b>	My symbol: ×

(Method 5) Use the CSS Code (for webpages).

CSS and HTML Text	Output
<style> span:after { content: "\00D7";} </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: &#x00D7;</b>	My symbol: ×

On the assumption that you already have your canvas and the context set up, use the Hex code in the format 0x00D7 to place the × symbol on your canvas. For example:

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+00D7. 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
00D7 [Hold down Alt] [Press x]	× (The 00D7 turns into ×. Note that you can omit any leading zeros.)

In JavaScript, the syntax is \uXXXX. So, our example would be \u00D7. (Note that the format is 4 hexadecimal characters.)

JavaScript Text	Output
let str = "\u00D7" document.write("My symbol: " + str)	My symbol: ×

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