What number is 36 the square root of? This question might seem simple at first glance, but it opens up a fascinating exploration into the world of mathematics. The square root of a number is a value that, when multiplied by itself, gives the original number. In this case, we are looking for the number that, when squared, equals 36. Let’s delve into this intriguing topic and uncover the answer.
In mathematics, the square root of a number is denoted by the symbol √. So, the square root of 36 can be written as √36. To find the value of √36, we need to determine the number that, when multiplied by itself, yields 36. This process involves finding a number that, when squared, equals 36.
To solve this problem, we can start by listing the multiples of 6, as 36 is a multiple of 6. The multiples of 6 are 6, 12, 18, 24, 30, and 36. We can then square each of these numbers to see which one equals 36. By doing so, we find that 6 squared is 36 (6 x 6 = 36). Therefore, the square root of 36 is 6.
It is important to note that the square root of a number can be both positive and negative. This is because both a positive and a negative number, when squared, will yield the same result. In the case of 36, the square root is not only 6 but also -6. This is because (-6) squared is also 36 ((-6) x (-6) = 36). So, the square root of 36 is both 6 and -6.
Furthermore, the concept of square roots extends beyond whole numbers. It also applies to fractions and irrational numbers. For example, the square root of 2 is an irrational number, meaning it cannot be expressed as a fraction. It is approximately 1.414, and when squared, it equals 2 (1.414 x 1.414 ≈ 2).
In conclusion, the answer to the question “What number is 36 the square root of?” is 6 and -6. This demonstrates the fascinating properties of square roots in mathematics, where both positive and negative values can be square roots of a number. Exploring the concept of square roots can lead to a deeper understanding of mathematics and its applications in various fields.
