Division sign
| Division sign | |
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| File:Division sign.svg | |
| First appearance | Script error: No such module "Formatted appearance". |
| Last appearance | Script error: No such module "Formatted appearance". |
The division sign (÷) is a mathematical symbol used to denote the operation of division. It is also known as the obelus, which historically referred to a different symbol (†) used in textual criticism.
History[edit | edit source]
The division sign has its origins in the work of the Swiss mathematician Johann Rahn, who first used it in his book Teutsche Algebra in 1659. Before the adoption of the division sign, division was often represented by a fraction or by placing the dividend over the divisor with a horizontal line between them.
Usage[edit | edit source]
In modern mathematics, the division sign is primarily used in elementary arithmetic to indicate division. For example, the expression "8 ÷ 2" means "8 divided by 2". In more advanced mathematics, the division sign is less commonly used, with the slash (/) or the fraction bar being preferred.
Alternative Symbols[edit | edit source]
Other symbols used to represent division include the slash (/) and the fraction bar. In computer programming, the slash is often used due to its presence on standard keyboards. For example, in many programming languages, "8 / 2" is used to represent division.
Related Symbols[edit | edit source]
- The multiplication sign (×) is used to denote multiplication.
- The equals sign (=) is used to denote equality.
- The plus sign (+) is used to denote addition.
- The minus sign (−) is used to denote subtraction.
Related Pages[edit | edit source]
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD
