Introduction:
The square root of a number is a fundamental concept in mathematics. It represents a value that, when multiplied by itself, gives the original number.
Understanding Square Root:
The square root of a number is denoted by the radical symbol √.
Finding the square root means determining a number which, when squared (multiplied by itself), equals the given number.
Example of Square Root:
The square root of 16 is calculated as follows:
What number multiplied by itself equals 16?
Since 4 × 4 = 16, the square root of 16 is 4.
This is written as √16 = 4.
Key Points to Remember:
Every positive number has two square roots: one positive and one negative. For example, the square roots of 16 are 4 and -4.
The square root of zero is zero, and negative numbers do not have real square roots.
Practical Applications:
Square roots are used in various areas of mathematics, including algebra and geometry, and in practical applications like architecture and engineering.