How to Type the Square Root Symbol on Keyboard, Mobile, and in Word
The concept of square root symbol is essential in mathematics. It is used in topics such as algebra, geometry, and scientific calculations and is a key part of many exam questions and real-world problem-solving.
What Is the Square Root Symbol?
The square root symbol (√) is a special mathematical sign used to indicate the principal (positive) square root of a number or expression. For example, √25 means “the square root of 25”, which equals 5. You’ll find this concept applied in algebra, geometry, and when working with calculators and digital devices.
Key Formula for Square Root Symbol
Here’s the standard formula: \( \sqrt{a} \) gives the non-negative number whose square is a. For example, \( \sqrt{9} = 3 \) because \( 3^2 = 9 \).
How to Write or Type the Square Root Symbol
Typing the square root symbol can be different depending on your device. Here is a quick guide:
| Platform | How to Type √ |
|---|---|
| Windows | Hold Alt and type 251 on the numeric keypad (Alt+251) |
| Mac | Press Option+V |
| Word/Excel | Insert > Symbol > √ or type \sqrt then press Space (in equation editor) |
| Mobile | Press and hold “v” or use symbol keyboard, or copy-paste “√” |
| Calculator | Look for the √ button directly |
| Python/Programming | Use math.sqrt() |
Step-by-Step Illustration
Let’s solve \( \sqrt{36} \):
1. Write: \( \sqrt{36} \ )2. Ask: What non-negative number squared equals 36?
3. Try 6: \( 6 \times 6 = 36 \)
4. Final Answer: **\( \sqrt{36} = 6 \)**
Examples: Using the Square Root Symbol
Here are a few solved examples to help you understand the application of the square root symbol:
1. \( \sqrt{9} = 3 \) (since \( 3 \times 3 = 9 \))2. \( \sqrt{81} = 9 \) (since \( 9 \times 9 = 81 \))
3. \( \sqrt{x} \) – If \( x = 49 \), then \( \sqrt{x} = 7 \)
4. In geometry, the formula for the area of a square with side s is \( s^2 \), so to find the side from an area A, you use \( s = \sqrt{A} \)
Cross-Disciplinary Usage
The square root symbol is not only crucial in Maths but is also used frequently in Science, Physics (e.g., formulas for velocity or acceleration), Computer Science (algorithms and coding), and even daily reasoning tasks. For students preparing for board exams or competitive tests like JEE or NEET, mastering its usage is very important.
Speed Trick or Vedic Shortcut
A quick trick: If a number ends in 25 and you want its square root (for numbers like 625, 1225), notice that the answer ends in 5. For example:
1. Given 12252. Last two digits are “25” → answer ends in 5
3. Remove 25: 12 (remaining digits)
4. Find a number whose square is closest to 12 but not over: 3×3=9, 4×4=16.
5. 3 is correct, so answer is 35
6. \( 35 \times 35 = 1225 \)
Shortcuts like this can boost your speed during exams. Vedantu educators teach many more tricks in their live sessions for better accuracy and speed.
Try These Yourself
- Find the value of \( \sqrt{49} \)
- Simplify \( \sqrt{64} \)
- Write the square root symbol using your computer, mobile, or calculator
- In a square with area 81 cm², what is the length of each side?
Frequent Errors and Misunderstandings
- Believing the square root symbol means both positive and negative roots (by convention, it means only the positive root)
- Forgetting to check if the number under the root (the radicand) is non-negative (for real numbers)
- Confusing square root (√) with cube root (∛)
- Copying or typing the wrong symbol, especially on digital platforms
Relation to Other Concepts
The use of the square root symbol is closely related to concepts like square roots, cube roots, and squares. Knowing how to handle the square root sign makes it easier to solve equations, find distances in geometry, and work with formulas in science.
Classroom Tip
A quick way to remember the square root symbol is to think of it as a “check mark” or “root” growing under the number. Teachers at Vedantu often use arrows, color, or graphics in class to help you spot and write the symbol confidently.
We explored the square root symbol—from definition, formula, examples, typing tricks, and connections to other maths problems. Keep practicing and explore Vedantu’s learning tools to master this essential symbol for exams and real-life maths.
Extra Learning Resources
FAQs on Square Root Symbol: Meaning, Typing, and Uses in Maths
1. What is the square root symbol in Maths and what does it represent?
The square root symbol (√), also known as the radical symbol, represents the positive square root of a number. It indicates which number, when multiplied by itself, equals the number under the symbol. For example, √9 = 3 because 3 × 3 = 9.
2. How do I type the square root symbol on a keyboard?
Typing the square root symbol varies depending on your operating system and application:
• Windows: Alt + 251
• Mac: Option + V
• Most Word Processors: Look for it in the 'Insert Symbols' or 'Math' menu.
• Online Text Editors (e.g. Google Docs): Insert via the special characters or equation editor.
3. What is the Alt code for the square root sign?
The Alt code for the square root symbol on Windows is Alt + 251. Note that this may not work in all applications.
4. How can I insert the square root symbol in Microsoft Word or Excel?
In Microsoft Word or Excel, you can usually insert the square root symbol by going to the 'Insert' tab, selecting 'Symbol', and finding the √ symbol in the character map. Alternatively, use the equation editor for more complex mathematical expressions.
5. What is the difference between the square root symbol (√) and the cube root symbol (∛)?
The square root symbol (√) finds a number that, when multiplied by itself, equals the given number. The cube root symbol (∛) finds a number that, when multiplied by itself three times, equals the given number. For example, √8 = 2 (2 × 2 = 4), but ∛8 = 2 (2 × 2 × 2 = 8).
6. How is the square root symbol used in equations?
The square root symbol is used to solve equations involving squared variables. For example, to solve x² = 25, you would take the square root of both sides: √x² = √25, resulting in x = ±5.
7. Why does the square root symbol sometimes not appear correctly?
The square root symbol may not appear correctly due to issues with the font being used, encoding problems, or compatibility issues with certain software or browsers. Using a standard font like Arial or Times New Roman often resolves this.
8. How is the square root symbol handled in programming languages like Python?
In Python, the square root is calculated using the math.sqrt() function from the math module. For example: import math; result = math.sqrt(9); print(result) will print 3.0.
9. Why is only the positive root usually shown as the answer to a square root problem?
In many basic maths problems, only the principal square root (the positive root) is considered. However, remember that every positive number has two square roots: a positive and a negative one. For example, while √9 = 3, the complete solution to x² = 9 is x = ±3.
10. Can the square root symbol be used with variables and equations, not just numbers?
Yes, absolutely! The square root symbol applies to variables and expressions just as it does to numbers. For example: √(x² + y²) is a valid mathematical expression.
11. What are some common mistakes students make with the square root symbol?
Common mistakes include forgetting that a number has two square roots (positive and negative), incorrectly applying the order of operations (PEMDAS/BODMAS) when square roots are involved in more complex calculations, and misinterpreting the symbol in different contexts (e.g., in geometry problems involving area).
12. How does the square root symbol relate to other mathematical concepts?
The square root is fundamentally linked to concepts like squaring (raising to the power of 2), exponents, quadratic equations, and various geometric calculations involving areas and lengths. Understanding square roots is essential for progressing to higher levels of mathematics.
