In a division operation, which term refers to the number being divided?

In a division operation, the term that refers to the number being divided is the dividend. This is the value that you start with, and it is the total amount you are separating into smaller parts. For example, in the division statement 20 ÷ 4, 20 is the dividend because it is the number that is being divided into groups.

Understanding the terminology in division is essential for proper mathematical comprehension. The quotient is the result of the division, the divisor is the number by which the dividend is being divided, and the factor relates to multiplication rather than division. Therefore, recognizing that the dividend is the specific term used for the number being divided clarifies its role in the operation.