---
tag: 0F6ES3BRYP
kind: concept
name: Characteristic of a ring
msc: [13A99]
sources:
  - url: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Characteristic_(algebra)
    locator: lead section
same_as:
  wikidata: Q836088
  wikipedia: Characteristic (algebra)
---

## Summary

The characteristic of a ring is the least positive integer $n$ such that the sum of $n$ copies of $1$ is $0$.
If there is no such integer, the characteristic is $0$.
The [[definition of the characteristic|0P7CH1CND5]] states this precisely.