How Did X Become the Unknown (and so much else)? Be Smart Video

What is the role of X in the English language?

• To represent the unknown in math

• To make sounds in various words

• To name generations and apps

• To rate movies

Why did X become popular in math?

• Because it is the fourth least common letter in English

• Because it is used 38 times less often than E

• Because it represents the unknown

• Because it is a soundless letter

What did ancient Babylonians introduce in math?

• The concept of known quantities

• The concept of unknown quantities

• The quadratic equation

• The use of X as a placeholder

What did al-Khwarizmi contribute to math?

• The use of X as a symbol for the unknown

• The invention of algebra

• The discovery of Neptune

• The development of algorithms

Why did mathematicians start using symbols instead of words in equations?

• To save ink

• To make the relationships and patterns in algebra easier to see

• To confuse other mathematicians

• To follow the trend

What did Rene Descartes contribute to algebra?

• The use of X as the universal symbol for the unknown

• The discovery of the quadratic equation

• The invention of algorithms

• The development of graphing equations

What is the significance of X in the real world?

• It is used in GPS systems and WiFi

• It helps solve algebraic equations

• It represents the unknown in various fields

• It is the 24th letter of the alphabet

Why is X associated with mystery and intrigue?

• Because it is the fourth least common letter in English

• Because it represents the unknown in math

• Because it is a soundless letter

• Because it is used in various fields

What did Malcolm X use the letter X for?

• To represent the unknown African name taken from his family during slavery

• To name his organization

• To represent the unknown in math

• To confuse people

Why are we so obsessed with X?

• Because it is the 24th letter of the alphabet

• Because it represents the unknown in math

• Because it is a mysterious and intriguing letter

• Because it is used in various fields