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Why is the cross symbol not used to show multiplication in algebra?
AIt is reserved only for showing division
BIt only appears inside division problems
CIt only works for two-digit numbers
DIt could be confused with the variable x
Answer & Solution
Correct answer: D. It could be confused with the variable x
1. Algebra regularly uses letters such as x as variables inside expressions.
2. Writing a cross symbol next to a variable named x could be misread as that same letter.
3. To avoid that confusion, algebra uses a dot or parentheses to show multiplication instead.
_Source: OpenStax Elementary Algebra (CC BY 4.0), Ch 1 "Foundations", section 1.2 Use the Language of Algebra_
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