In mathematics, the term product refers to the result obtained when two or more numbers are multiplied together. The numbers being multiplied are called factors, and their multiplication yields the product. For example, the product of 2 and 3 is 6, because 2×3=62\times 3=62×3=6
. Key points about the product in math include:
- The product is the answer to a multiplication problem.
- The order in which numbers are multiplied does not affect the product (commutative property).
- Multiplying any number by 1 leaves it unchanged (multiplicative identity).
- Multiplying any number by 0 results in 0 (zero property).
- The product can involve whole numbers, fractions, decimals, or variables.
- When multiplying several numbers, you can multiply them in any order due to the associative property.
For example, to find the product of 2, 3, and 4, you can multiply 2 and 3 first to get 6, then multiply 6 by 4 to get 24. Alternatively, multiply 4 and 2 first to get 8, then multiply 8 by 3 to get 24. Both ways yield the same product, 24
. Thus, the product is fundamentally the result of the multiplication operation, and understanding it is essential for many areas of mathematics and practical applications like calculating total costs or areas
Summary:
- Product = Result of multiplying two or more factors
- Factors = Numbers being multiplied
- Properties: commutative, associative, multiplicative identity, zero property
This definition applies universally in arithmetic and algebra contexts
