Multiplication

Definition of Multiplication

• Multiplication is the process of finding the total number of items in a given number of groups where each group has the same number of items. It is denoted by the symbol ‘’.
• Multiplication is the repeated addition.

For example, 4 × 6 means four 6’s:

6 + 6 + 6 + 6 = 24.

Examples of Multiplication

• The example below has 3 groups of 10 asterisks. We can use multiplication to find the total number.

*****        *****         *****

*****        *****         *****

3 ×10 = 30, 3 groups of 10 equals 30.

More about Multiplication

• Multiplication is commutative. That is, a × b = b × a, where a and b are real numbers. 

 

Solved Example on Multiplication

Find the value of 7 × 8.

Choices:

A. 7

B. 8

C. 15

D. 56

Correct Answer: D

Solution:

Step 1: Multiplication is a repeated addition. You either add seven 8’s or add eight 7’s, you get the same value.

Step 2: That is, 7 + 7 + 7 + 7 + 7 + 7 + 7 + 7 = 56 or 8 + 8 + 8 + 8 + 8 + 8 + 8 = 56.

            

Related Terms for Multiplication

• Addition

Additional Links for Multiplication

• Click here for samples
• Back to Mathematics Dictionary