Subscript
/ˈsʌbskrɪpt/
Definition 1 of 2
Pro Tip 1/3Differentiate Elements
Subscripts help distinguish between similar elements or variables in equations.
The oxygen molecule O2 has two oxygen atoms, represented by the subscript '2'.
Pro Tip 2/3Sequential References
In sequences or lists, subscripts are used to reference elements in order.
For a series a1, a2, a3..., the subscript indicates the position in the sequence.
Pro Tip 3/3Chemical Formulas
Chemistry uses subscripts to show the number of atoms in a molecule.
Water (H2O) has two hydrogen atoms, shown by the subscript '2'.
Compare with
Superscript
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