What is MIME type "application/vnd.stardivision.math"?

A MIME type is a string that tells browsers and other tools how to handle a particular kind of file.

application/vnd.stardivision.math is used for math documents created by the StarOffice suite. It represents files that hold mathematical equations and formulas in a structured binary format.

Files with this MIME type are designed to let users edit and share complex math content. The main use is in creating and managing equations separate from regular text documents. For example, standalone math files use the SMF extension.

Enables detailed editing of mathematical formulas.
Facilitates embedding math content into larger office documents.
Helps exchange formatted equations between compatible office apps.

Other StarOffice binary file types exist for different purposes. However, files described by this MIME type specifically target mathematical content. For more details on MIME types and their registration, see the IANA MIME Type Registration.

Associated file extensions

.sdb, .sds, .sdc, .sdw, .sdg, .smf, .sgl, .sda, .sdp, .sdd, .sdm, .vor

Usage Examples

HTTP Header

When serving content with this MIME type, set the Content-Type header:


    Content-Type: application/vnd.stardivision.math

HTML

In HTML, you can specify the MIME type in various elements:


    <a href="file.dat" type="application/vnd.stardivision.math">Download file</a>

Server-side (Node.js)

Setting the Content-Type header in Node.js:


    const http = require('http');
    
    http.createServer((req, res) => {
      res.setHeader('Content-Type', 'application/vnd.stardivision.math');
      res.end('Content here');
    }).listen(3000);

Associated file extensions

.sdb, .sds, .sdc, .sdw, .sdg, .smf, .sgl, .sda, .sdp, .sdd, .sdm, .vor

FAQ

What is a MIME type?

A MIME (Multipurpose Internet Mail Extensions) type is a standard that indicates the nature and format of a document, file, or assortment of bytes. MIME types are defined and standardized in IETF's RFC 6838.

MIME types are important because they help browsers and servers understand how to process a file. When a browser receives a file from a server, it uses the MIME type to determine how to display or handle the content, whether it's an image to display, a PDF to open in a viewer, or a video to play.

MIME types consist of a type and a subtype, separated by a slash (e.g., text/html, image/jpeg, application/pdf). Some MIME types also include optional parameters.

How do I find the MIME type for a file?

You can check the file extension or use a file identification tool such as file --mime-type on the command line. Many programming languages also provide libraries to detect MIME types.

Why are multiple MIME types listed for one extension?

Different applications and historical conventions may use alternative MIME identifiers for the same kind of file. Showing them all helps ensure compatibility across systems.