LaTeX Alpha (α) - Complete Guide

The Greek letter alpha (α) is commonly used in mathematics and science to denote angles, coefficients, and variables.

Symbol Preview

α

Alpha

LaTeX Code

No package required

Recommended
\alpha

Standard Greek letter command

What is the LaTeX Alpha?

Alpha is the first letter of the Greek alphabet. In LaTeX, it is represented by the \alpha command in math mode. It is widely used in mathematics, physics, and engineering for representing angles, coefficients, and various physical quantities.

How to Use Alpha in LaTeX

Method 1: Using \alpha

✅No package required

Standard Greek letter command

Example: Using \alpha

latex
\documentclass{article}

\begin{document}

% Using the Alpha
Text with \alpha

\end{document}

Common Use Cases

The Alpha symbol is commonly used in the following contexts:

Angle Notation

Used to represent angles in geometry and trigonometry.

Code

The angle $\alpha = 45^\circ$

Output

The angle α = 45°

Statistical Notation

Used in statistics for significance levels and parameters.

Code

At significance level $\alpha = 0.05$

Output

At significance level α = 0.05

Physics Variables

Used for angular acceleration and other physics quantities.

Code

Angular acceleration: $\alpha = \frac{d\omega}{dt}$

Output

Angular acceleration: α = dω/dt

Complete Examples

Basic Greek Letter Usage

Simple example of using alpha in a document

latex
\documentclass{article}
\begin{document}

The Greek letter alpha is written as $\alpha$ in math mode.

\end{document}

Multiple Greek Letters

Using multiple Greek letters together

latex
\documentclass{article}
\begin{document}

Let $\alpha, \beta, \gamma$ be angles in a triangle.

\end{document}

Frequently Asked Questions

Which method should I use?

We recommend using the method marked as "Recommended" above. However, the best method depends on your specific needs:

  • \alpha: Standard Greek letter command

Where do I use this symbol?

This symbol can be used:

  • In mathematical equations (math mode)
  • In regular text (if using text mode)
  • In various document environments

Can I use this in display mode?

Yes, symbols that work in math mode (between $ $) also work in display mode (between $$ $$). This allows you to display the symbol on its own line with larger formatting.

🔗 Related Symbols You May Need

β

Beta

\beta
γ

Gamma

\gamma
δ

Delta

\delta
View all symbols →

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