A square root of a number is a value that, when multiplied by itself, gives the original number. For example, consider the number 9.
The square root of 9 is 3 because when you multiply 3 by itself (3 x 3), you get 9.
Mathematically, if x 2 = a , then x is a square root of a . So, 3 2 = 9 , making 3 a square root of 9.
It's important to note that every positive number has two square roots: one positive and one negative. In the case of 9, the square roots are 3 and -3, since ( − 3 ) × ( − 3 ) also equals 9.
The square root symbol is . For example, 9 = 3 .
In general, finding the square root of a number is a basic skill in mathematics that helps in understanding more complex topics, such as algebra and geometry. It is usually taught in middle school.