λ
Lambda in Mathematics
In Mathematics, the Lambda symbol (λ) is commonly used. Learn how to copy and use it in your technical documents.
Unicode
U+03BB
HTML Entity
λ
LaTeX Sequence
\lambda
Primary Field
MathematicsMathematics Application
Lambda denotes wavelength in physics and optics, eigenvalues in linear algebra, the decay constant in radioactivity, and the rate parameter of the Poisson and exponential distributions. In computer science it names anonymous (lambda) functions.
How to type Lambda (λ)
- Fastest: click λ on the keyboard above — it copies to your clipboard, ready to paste into Word, Google Docs, email or a forum.
- Unicode: the code point is shown in the panel above; on Windows you can also use Alt‑X after the hex code in Word.
- LaTeX: use the command shown above inside math mode.
- Anywhere: because it’s standard Unicode, it keeps its exact form across apps and devices.
Frequently asked questions
What is λ in physics?
Wavelength — the distance between successive crests of a wave, related to speed and frequency by v = fλ.
What is an eigenvalue λ?
A scalar that scales an eigenvector when a linear transformation is applied; fundamental to matrices and quantum mechanics.
Write mathematical and scientific expressions
Need to pair this symbol with other operators?