The equation "3 × 3 = 9" represents a basic multiplication fact in mathematics. Here, the number 3 is multiplied by itself, meaning that if you have three groups of three items, you will have a total of nine items. This concept is fundamental in arithmetic and helps in understanding larger multiplication problems. Multiplication is a way to add the same number multiple times. In this case, adding 3 three times (3 + 3 + 3) also results in 9. This relationship between addition and multiplication is essential for learning more complex math concepts later on.