Multiplication Sign

ASCII Code: 215•Category: symbols

The multiplication sign (×) represents the fundamental arithmetic operation of multiplication, essential for mathematical education, scientific calculation, and precise notation where the asterisk (*) might cause confusion.

Technical Details

ASCII Code: 215
HTML Entity: ×
Hexadecimal: 0xD7
Binary: 11010111
Octal: 327

Usage & Examples

Programming

char symbol = '×'; // ASCII 215

HTML/Web

× or ×

Common Uses

multiplicationtimes

How to Type This Character

Windows

Alt Code:

Hold Alt and type215 on numeric keypad

Character Map:

Search "Character Map" in Start menu

Mac

Character Viewer:

Press Ctrl +Cmd +Space

Copy & Paste:

Easiest method - copy from this page!

💡 Pro tip: The fastest way is to bookmark this page or copy the character from our ASCII library!

Related Characters

About the Multiplication Sign

Mathematical Precision

The formal multiplication symbol in mathematical education, academic publications, and scientific literature. Distinguishes multiplication from other operations and provides visual clarity in complex expressions where multiple operators appear together.

Educational Foundation

Essential for mathematics education from elementary through advanced levels, appearing in textbooks, worksheets, and standardized tests worldwide. The × symbol teaches proper mathematical notation and prepares students for formal mathematical communication.

Scientific Notation

Critical in scientific formulas, research papers, and technical documentation where precision is paramount. Used in physics equations, chemistry formulas, and engineering calculations where ambiguity could lead to errors.

International Standards

Recognized globally as the standard multiplication symbol in formal mathematics, ensuring consistent mathematical communication across cultures, languages, and educational systems worldwide.

History of the Multiplication Sign

1631

William Oughtred

English mathematician William Oughtred introduced the × symbol for multiplication in his work 'Clavis Mathematicae,' choosing the cross shape to represent the operation of 'crossing' or combining numbers.

1600s-1700s

European Adoption

European mathematicians gradually adopted the × symbol, though some preferred other notations. The symbol gained acceptance in academic mathematics and formal mathematical publications.

1800s

Educational Standardization

Mathematics textbooks and educational systems standardized the × symbol for multiplication, making it fundamental to mathematical education and establishing its role in pedagogy.

1900s

Global Mathematics

International mathematical organizations and educational standards adopted × as the standard multiplication symbol, ensuring consistent mathematical notation across all cultures and languages.

1980s-Present

Digital Integration

Computer systems, mathematical software, and educational technology integrated the × symbol, enabling its continued use in digital mathematics education and scientific computing.

Cultural Impact

The multiplication sign became the universal symbol of mathematical precision and educational achievement, enabling consistent mathematical communication that transcends linguistic and cultural boundaries in global education and science.

Usage Examples

Basic Arithmetic

Example

3 × 4 = 12, 25 × 8 = 200, 7 × 9 = 63

Elementary mathematics and arithmetic operations

Scientific Formulas

Example

E = mc², F = ma, PV = nRT × temperature

Physics and chemistry equations requiring precise notation

Mathematical Education

Example

Multiply: 146 × 23, Find: x × y = 144, Solve: 2x × 3y = 18

Textbook problems and educational materials

Dimensional Analysis

Example

Speed: 60 km/h × 1000 m/km × 1 h/3600 s = 16.67 m/s

Unit conversions and scientific calculations