What does the in equations stand for?

  • Thread starter Energize
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In summary, the "in" in equations is a preposition that signifies the mathematical operation or relationship between two quantities. It can be replaced with other words or symbols, and it is not necessary in all equations. Its main purpose is to show the relationship between the two quantities being compared in an equation.
  • #1
Energize
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What does the "." in equations stand for?

I've been revising electric fields, and have come across the equation [tex] \Delta E_{p} = k . Q_{1} Q_{2} [ \frac{1}{r_{1}} - \frac{1}{r_{2}}] [/tex]

I have never come across a decimal point in an equation before, what does it mean?
 
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  • #2
"." is another way of saying "multiplied by"
 
  • #3
It is to avoid using [itex]\times[/itex] which can be used to represent a variable. It would cause confusion hence a dot is used to show multiplication.
 
  • #4
Note, it's not a period, as in [ilatex]a . b[/ilatex], it's a midline-dot, like [ilatex]a \cdot b[/ilatex]

- Warren
 

Question 1: What is the significance of the "in" in equations?

The "in" in equations is used to represent the relationship between two quantities. It indicates that the two quantities are being compared or related to each other in some way.

Question 2: Does the "in" have a specific mathematical meaning?

Yes, the "in" is a preposition that signifies the mathematical operation or relationship between the two quantities in an equation. It is used to show how the quantities are connected or related to each other.

Question 3: Why is the "in" sometimes written as an equal sign (=) in equations?

In some cases, the "in" is written as an equal sign to show that the two quantities are equal to each other. This is done to simplify the equation and make it easier to understand.

Question 4: Can the "in" be replaced with other words or symbols?

Yes, depending on the context, the "in" can be replaced with other words or symbols such as "equals," "is," or an equal sign (=). These substitutions do not change the meaning of the equation, as long as the proper mathematical relationship is still represented.

Question 5: Is the "in" necessary in all equations?

No, the "in" is not necessary in all equations. It is primarily used to show the relationship between two quantities in an equation. In some cases, the "in" may be replaced with other words or symbols, or it may not be needed at all if the relationship is clear from the context of the equation.

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