What Is a Root in Maths? Simple Explanation

A square root of a number is the value that, when multiplied by itself, equals that number.

✍🏽 Example:

• √9 = 3 → because 3 × 3 = 9

• √16 = 4 → because 4 × 4 = 16
  
  

So, the square root helps us find the original number that was squared.

How to Read and Write Roots

The root sign √ is called the radical symbol.

• The number inside (like 9 in √9) is the radicand.

• The number that shows which root you’re finding (2 in √) is the index — but in square roots, we usually don’t write it.
  
  

Other Types of Roots

There are also cube roots (³√), fourth roots (⁴√), and more!

✍🏽 Examples:

• ³√8 = 2 → because 2 × 2 × 2 = 8
  
  

• ⁴√16 = 2 → because 2 × 2 × 2 × 2 = 16
  
  

These are used in higher-level maths, but the idea is the same — it’s the number that’s multiplied by itself several times to make another number.

Why Roots Are Important

Roots are the opposite of powers (exponents).
They help us solve equations, find lengths in geometry, and work with measurements in real life.

✍🏽 Example:
If the area of a square is 25 cm², then each side is √25 = 5 cm.

Fun Way to Remember

Think of roots like undoing multiplication.
If squaring makes a number bigger, taking the root brings it back to the start! 🌱

Practice with Workbooks

Want to practice more?
 

👉 Explore our Children’s Math Workbooks for fun activities and visual exercises that make learning roots and other concepts easy and enjoyable!

Conclusion

In maths, a root helps us find the number that was multiplied to make another number.
It’s like finding the “starting number” behind every square, cube, or power!

✨Remember: roots help us grow our maths skills — one square at a time! ✨