Definition:Multiplicative Notation

Definition
Multiplicative notation, also called product notation, is a convention for representing a binary operation of an algebraic structure.

Let $S$ be such an algebraic structure, and let $x, y \in S$.
 * $x y$ is used to indicate the result of the operation on $x$ and $y$. There is no symbol used to define the operation itself.


 * $e$ or $1$ is used for the identity element.


 * $x^{-1}$ is used for the inverse element.


 * $x^n$ is used to indicate the $n$th power of $x$.

This notation is usual in group theory when discussing the general group.

It is also the usual notation in:
 * ring theory for the ring product
 * field theory for the field product.

Also see

 * Definition:Additive Notation