what is the little dot for multiplcation in math

Answer 1

In mathematics, the little dot used for multiplication is known as the "multiplication dot" or "dot operator". It is typically represented as "·". For example, the expression "3 · 4" means 3 multiplied by 4.

This dot is used to avoid confusion with the variable "x" and is especially common in higher mathematics, such as algebra and calculus, where it is important to distinguish between different symbols. Here's an example:

\[ 3 \cdot 4 = 12 \]

In this notation, the dot is placed between the numbers or variables being multiplied. This is particularly useful when working with more complex expressions or when using variables that could be mistaken for the letter "x". Other common symbols for multiplication include the asterisk (*) and the cross (×), although the asterisk is more frequently used in programming languages.

For clarity:

- 3 × 4 = 12
- 3 * 4 = 12
- 3 · 4 = 12

All these expressions mean the same thing: 3 multiplied by 4 equals 12.