Coefficient
/ˌkoʊ.ɪˈfɪʃ.ənt/
Definitions
A constant number that multiplies a variable.
/ˌkoʊ.ɪˈfɪʃ.ənt/
A numerical or constant quantity placed before and multiplying the variable in an algebraic expression (e.g., 4 in 4x).
The coefficient of x in the equation 5x + 2 = 12 is 5.
💡 Simply: Imagine a number that's attached to a letter (like x or y) in math. That number is the coefficient – it's the number that multiplies the letter. For example, in 3x, 3 is the coefficient.
👶 For kids: It's a number that's stuck to a letter in math.
More Examples
Understanding coefficients is crucial for solving algebraic equations.
How It's Used
"In the equation 2x + 5 = 9, 2 is the coefficient of x."
"The coefficient of friction determines how easily two surfaces slide against each other."
From Latin *coefficiens, present participle of *co-efficere "to produce together," from *com- "together" + *facere "to make, do."
The term 'coefficient' has been used in mathematics since at least the 17th century.
Memory tip
Think 'co' as in 'with' and 'efficient' as in 'effective'; it efficiently works with a variable.