Symbols and notation

Square-root symbol

The radical sign requests a root; without a written index it means the principal square root, and with an index it specifies another root degree.

Common notation√x; ⁿ√x

In one sentence

What does Square-root symbol mean?

The radical sign requests a root; without a written index it means the principal square root, and with an index it specifies another root degree.

How it is written

√x; ⁿ√x

A compact example

√49=7 and ³√27=3.

Other names and search terms

√, radical sign, root symbol, square root sign.

Where this fits

When should you learn Square-root symbol?

The first encounter is not the final level. Many ideas begin visually, become computational in high school and become formal in college.

  1. 1Pre-high schoolPrepare foundations
  2. 2High schoolUsually introduced
  3. 3CollegeGreater depth
  4. 4AdvancedGreater depth
Typical subjects
  • Mathematical notation
  • Algebra
Know first
  • Reading equations
What it unlocks
  • Fluent formula reading
  • Advanced mathematics

Clear answers

Questions about Square-root symbol

What does Square-root symbol mean in mathematics?

The radical sign requests a root; without a written index it means the principal square root, and with an index it specifies another root degree.

How is Square-root symbol written?

A common notation is √x; ⁿ√x.

What is an example of Square-root symbol?

√49=7 and ³√27=3.

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