Definition:Unit (One)

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This page is about the number $1$. For other uses, see unit.

Definition

A numerical quantity whose cardinality corresponds to the number $1$ (one) is called a unit.


In the words of Euclid:

An unit is that of which each of the things that exist is called one.

(The Elements: Book $\text{VII}$: Definition $1$)


One of Naturally Ordered Semigroup

Let $\struct {S, \circ, \preceq}$ be a naturally ordered semigroup.

Let $S^*$ be the zero complement of $S$.

By Zero Complement is Not Empty, $S^*$ is not empty.

Therefore, by Naturally Ordered Semigroup Axiom $\text {NO} 4$: Existence of Distinct Elements, $\struct {S^*, \circ, \preceq}$ has a smallest element for $\preceq$.


This smallest element is called one and denoted $1$.


Also known as

In older writings, a unit is often rendered as an unit; the rules of grammar have since evolved.


Also see

  • Results about $1$ can be found here.


Sources