Product — Definition, Formula & Examples

Product

The result of multiplying a set of numbers or expressions.

Key Formula

p = a \times b

Where:

$p$ = The product
$a$ = First factor
$b$ = Second factor

Worked Example

Problem: Find the product of 8 and 7.

Step 1: Multiply the two factors together.

8 \times 7 = 56

Answer: The product of 8 and 7 is 56.

Why It Matters

The word "product" appears constantly in math problems and instructions. When a question says "find the product of 3 and 12," it is asking you to multiply. Recognizing this term is essential for interpreting word problems correctly across arithmetic, algebra, and beyond.

Common Mistakes

Mistake: Confusing "product" with "sum."

Correction: A product is the result of multiplication, while a sum is the result of addition. If a problem asks for the product of 4 and 5, the answer is 20, not 9.

Related Terms

Expression — Products often appear within expressions
Factor — Numbers being multiplied to form a product
Multiply — The operation that produces a product
Sum — Result of addition, commonly confused with product
Quotient — Result of division, counterpart to product