What is the term used when a variable is multiplied by a number?

The term that is used when a variable is multiplied by a number is called a coefficient. In mathematical terms, a coefficient is a numerical value that precedes a variable in an algebraic expression. For example, in the expression 5x, the number 5 is the coefficient of the variable x; it shows how many times the variable is being counted. The coefficient is critical in determining the value of the entire term depending on the variable's value.

Understanding this concept is important in algebra, as it establishes the relationship between the variables and their associated numbers, which can affect calculations, graphing, and solving equations.