Definition
Asterisk
An asterisk (*) is a typographical symbol that serves various functions across different contexts. It is commonly used to denote footnotes, represent multiplication in mathematical expressions, serve as a wildcard character in computational procedures, and symbolize omitted material in texts.
Examples
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Footnotes:
- In academic writing, an asterisk is often used to indicate additional information or a citation listed at the bottom of the page. For example: “The chemical equation is balanced correctly.*”
*See Appendix A for the detailed calculation.
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Mathematics:
- The asterisk is used to illustrate multiplication operations. For example: 3 * 4 equals 12.
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Wildcard in Searches:
- In computing, the asterisk can replace zero or more characters in string searches. For instance, searching for “doc*” might return “document,” “docs,” and “doctor.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is an asterisk commonly used for in written text?
A1: An asterisk is commonly used as a reference mark to link text to a footnote or other explanatory note.
Q2: How is an asterisk used in mathematical expressions?
A2: In mathematics, an asterisk signifies multiplication. For example, 5 * 2 means 5 multiplied by 2.
Q3: What role does an asterisk play in computer searches?
A3: An asterisk acts as a wildcard character, allowing searches for files or data that match a pattern with zero or more unspecified characters.
Q4: Can the asterisk be used in regular expressions?
A4: Yes, in regular expressions, an asterisk indicates that the preceding character or group should match zero or more times.
Q5: Is the asterisk ever used in phone keypads?
A5: Yes, on phone keypads, the asterisk key (*) can be used for various functions like navigating menus or entering specific strings.
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Caret (^):
- Often used in proofreading to indicate insertion points or in mathematics to denote exponentiation.
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Underscore (_):
- A character used underlining in proofreading or as a space replacement in filenames and data strings.
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Bullet Point (•):
- Used to introduce items in a list for better readability.
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Ellipsis (…):
- Indicates omitted material or a trailing off of thought in written text.
Online References
- Wikipedia: Asterisk
- Investopedia: Footnote Definition
- Math Is Fun: Multiplication
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- Understanding Typographical Symbols by Matthew Butterick
- The Elements of Mathematical Style by Joseph Gilland
- Effective Regular Expressions by Jeffrey E. F. Friedl
- Introduction to Computers and Computing by Peter Norton
Fundamentals of Asterisk: Communications Basics Quiz
### What is a common use of an asterisk in written text?
- [x] To cite footnotes
- [ ] To separate sentences
- [ ] To indicate end of paragraph
- [ ] To replace spaces
> **Explanation:** Asterisks are frequently used to cite footnotes or references in written text.
### In mathematics, which operation does the asterisk (*) represent?
- [ ] Addition
- [ ] Division
- [ ] Subtraction
- [x] Multiplication
> **Explanation:** The asterisk (*) is used to denote multiplication in mathematics.
### When used in filename searches, what does an asterisk (*) signify?
- [ ] A specific character
- [ ] The end of a filename
- [ ] The start of a filename
- [x] Zero or more unspecified characters
> **Explanation:** In filename searches, an asterisk acts as a wildcard character, representing zero or more unspecified characters.
### Can the asterisk be used in the context of regular expressions?
- [x] Yes, it represents zero or more instances of the preceding element.
- [ ] No, it is not used in regular expressions.
- [ ] Yes, but only at the beginning of the string.
- [ ] Only to denote spaces.
> **Explanation:** In regular expressions, the asterisk indicates that the preceding character or group can appear zero or more times.
### On a computer keyboard, where is the asterisk typically found?
- [x] Shift + 8 key
- [ ] Alt + 1 key
- [ ] Ctrl + 7 key
- [ ] Shift + 5 key
> **Explanation:** On most computer keyboards, the asterisk can be entered by pressing the Shift key along with the number 8 key.
### Is the asterisk used in phone keypads?
- [x] Yes
- [ ] No
> **Explanation:** Yes, the asterisk is present on phone keypads and is used for various functions.
### What is another term commonly associated with the function of an asterisk?
- [ ] Parentheses
- [ ] Hyphen
- [x] Wildcard
- [ ] Apostrophe
> **Explanation:** The term ‘wildcard’ is commonly associated with the function of an asterisk, especially in computational searches.
### How does the asterisk function in mathematical proofs or text?
- [ ] As a divider
- [x] As a symbol for multiplication
- [ ] As an addition symbol
- [ ] As an exponentiation indicator
> **Explanation:** In mathematical texts, an asterisk is used as a symbol for multiplication.
### What is the primary purpose of an asterisk in written documents?
- [x] To link to footnotes or references
- [ ] To replace letters
- [ ] To indicate new sections
- [ ] To highlight bold phrases
> **Explanation:** The primary purpose of an asterisk in written documents is to link to footnotes or references.
### How is the asterisk used in linguistic studies?
- [ ] As a phonetic marker
- [x] To indicate reconstructed or hypothetical forms
- [ ] To symbolize emphasis
- [ ] None of the above
> **Explanation:** In linguistic studies, an asterisk often indicates reconstructed or hypothetical forms of words or phrases.
Thank you for exploring the diverse uses of the asterisk with our comprehensive guide and engaging quizzes. Keep enhancing your knowledge and discovering new applications for this versatile symbol!
