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identity element
noun
: an element (such as 0 in the set of all integers under addition or 1 in the set of positive integers under multiplication) that leaves any element of the set to which it belongs unchanged when combined with it by a specified operation
Examples of identity element in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
The third rule is that the group must contain an element that leaves other group elements unchanged, called an identity element.
—Leila Sloman, Quanta Magazine, 6 Sep. 2024
The identity element always forms a subgroup by itself, called the trivial subgroup.
—Leila Sloman, Quanta Magazine, 6 Sep. 2024
Individually examining each identity element alone when onboarding a new customer is often ineffective, as all the pieces of information provided may be technically valid.
—Robert McKay, Forbes, 18 May 2021
For example, the identity element in the group must be assigned the identity matrix.
—Quanta Magazine, 9 June 2020
The real numbers have an identity element — the number 1.
—Quanta Magazine, 9 June 2020
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'identity element.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Word History
First Known Use
1902, in the meaning defined above
Dictionary Entries Near identity element
Cite this Entry
“Identity element.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/identity%20element. Accessed 4 Nov. 2024.
Kids Definition
identity element
noun
: an element of a set that leaves any other element of the set unchanged when combined with it using a given mathematical operation
0 is the identity element of the set of whole numbers under addition
More from Merriam-Webster on identity element
Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about identity element
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