Multiplicand and Multiplier question

[wtmviolet]

I somehow just noticed this in R&S math. The terms for a vertical multiplication problem are as I expected:

multiplicand
x multiplier
-----------
product

However, for a horizontal multiplication problem, R&S shows the terms as:

multiplier x multiplicand = product

which seems backward to me as I expected:

multiplicand x multiplier = product

Which is correct? Both, maybe?

[training5]

I have noticed this as well. I wonder if it matters because you get the same answer no matter the order.

[Mrs Mungo]

I somehow just noticed this in R&S math. The terms for a vertical multiplication problem are as I expected:

multiplicand
x multiplier
-----------
product

However, for a horizontal multiplication problem, R&S shows the terms as:

multiplier x multiplicand = product

which seems backward to me as I expected:

multiplicand x multiplier = product

Which is correct? Both, maybe?

I thought the multiplier was always the smaller number? That's why it goes first when writing horizontally but goes on bottom when multiplying vertically? I don't think it matters with single digits numbers, it mainly helps kids understand order of operations with multiple digit numbers? Sorry I'm putting question marks after everything, that's my understanding but this is not my area of expertise, I majored in Literature for a reason ;)

eta: We use Horizons and it's always the same. When writing the problem horizontally the multiplicand comes second.

e(again)ta: http://nsdl.org/resource/2200/20061219131647704T

WOO! According to a 19th century textbook I am correct! Just a little behind the times, that's all.

It seems that the experts are in a bit of disagreement
http://www.mathsisfun.com/definitions/multiplicand.html
http://mathcentral.uregina.ca/QQ/database/QQ.09.03/karen1.html

[wtmviolet]

Thank you for your comments! I had also found contradictory definitions and really liked the one you posted from Ask Doctor Math (http://nsdl.org/resource/2200/20061219131647704T).

Thanks again,
Debbie