You know how we have inverse operations for basic mathematical operations like subtraction is the inverse of addition and division is the inverse of multiplication? Well, there is an inverse operation for squares!
Jenn, Founder Calcworkshop®, 15+ Years Experience (Licensed & Certified Teacher)
Introducing the Square Root!
If the square of a number means to multiply it by itself, when working with square roots we are going the other way and trying to determine the value that can be multiplied by itself to give the original number.
But first, we need to understand the notation and properties of square roots, which begins with the square root symbol itself.
There are three major parts to a square root:
- Radical Symbol
- Index
- Radicand
Notation for Radicals
The index tells us what type of radical we are dealing with and the radical symbol helps us identify the radicand, which is the expression under the radical symbol.
Our overall goal is to either eliminate the radical symbol or simplify the radicand to a product of primes.
In this lesson, we will focus predominately on square roots and perfect squares for both numerical and variable expressions.
We will use our square root properties to give the principal or positive result, as Math is Fun accurately states, as well as discovering when it is necessary to apply an absolute value to our results.
Together we will simplify countless examples and build the foundation for future lessons dealing with radicals.
Square Roots (How-To) – Video
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