---
tag: 07WYQPB8E3
kind: concept
name: Identity element
aliases: [neutral-element]
msc: [08A02]
sources:
  - url: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Identity_element
    locator: Definitions
same_as:
  wikidata: Q185813
  wikipedia: Identity element
---

## Summary

An identity element for a binary operation is an element that does not change any element when it is combined with it on either side.
Examples are $0$ for addition and $1$ for multiplication.