Understanding the value of root 3 is a basic concept in mathematics. This is especially true when working with irrational numbers, geometry, and trigonometry. The square root of 3, or √3, is common in mathematical problems, particularly those involving equilateral triangles, 30°-60°-90° triangles, and various engineering tasks.
This topic explores the value of root 3 in-depth, providing explanations, methods to calculate it manually, and a clear breakdown using a square root table and the square root using long division method
Table of Contents
In mathematics, the value of root 3 is the positive number that, when multiplied by itself, equals 3. Mathematically:
√3 × √3 = 3
The square root of 3 is an irrational number, which means it cannot be expressed as a simple fraction. Its decimal representation goes on infinitely without repeating. The approximate value of √3 is:
√3 ≈ 1.7320508075
This value is often used in trigonometry. For instance:
In a 30°-60°-90° triangle, the ratio of the sides includes the square root of 3.
The tangent of 60° equals the value of root 3.
The height of an equilateral triangle with side length ‘a’ is (√3/2) × a.
You might wonder how to find square root of 3 manually or without a calculator. There are several methods:
Estimate between perfect squares:
√1 = 1
√4 = 2
So, the square root of 3 lies between 1 and 2. Try estimating:
1.7² = 2.89
1.73² = 2.9929
1.732² = 2.999824
Thus, the value of √3 is approximately 1.732.
One reliable manual technique to find the value of root 3 is the long division method. Here are the steps:
Write 3 as 3.000000…
Group digits in pairs from the decimal point.
Find the largest number whose square is less than or equal to 3.
Use long division to expand digit by digit.
Using this long division method, you can get the value of root 3 accurate to as many decimal places as needed.
Here are some key points about the value of root 3:
It is irrational.
Decimal approximation: √3 ≈ 1.732050807568877
√3 × √3 = 3
It is commonly used in geometry, trigonometry, and engineering.
By using the long division method, you can calculate the √3 value to more decimal places if needed.
The square root table below gives approximate values of common square roots. It is especially helpful for solving problems manually.
Number |
Square Root |
Approx. Value |
1 |
√1 |
1.000 |
2 |
√2 |
1.414 |
3 |
√3 |
1.732 |
4 |
√4 |
2.000 |
5 |
√5 |
2.236 |
6 |
√6 |
2.449 |
7 |
√7 |
2.645 |
8 |
√8 |
2.828 |
9 |
√9 |
3.000 |
As shown in the square root table, the value of root 3 falls between √2 and √4. This table offers a quick reference for commonly used √ values, with √3 value among the most frequently encountered.
The value of root 3 appears in many real-life applications:
Calculating heights and lengths in architecture
Electrical engineering (three-phase current systems)
Trigonometry (sine and tangent for 60°)
Physics (vector analysis)
Knowing how to find the square root of 3 manually using estimation or the long division method is beneficial for both academic and practical problem-solving.
The value of root 3 is a key mathematical constant used in geometry, trigonometry, and many scientific fields. The square root of 3 is approximately 1.732 and is irrational, meaning it cannot be expressed exactly as a fraction. You can determine the value of √3 manually through estimation, the long division method, or by referring to a square root table.
Understanding how to find square root of 3 will help you in solving a wide range of problems. Whether you're working in math, science, or engineering, the value of root 3 is an essential part of your toolkit.
Related Links
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Trigonometric Identities - Learn essential trigonometric identities, including reciprocal, Pythagorean, and co-function identities, with proofs and examples for better understanding.
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Ans: The value of √3 (square root of 3) is approximately 1.732. It is an irrational number and cannot be expressed exactly as a simple fraction.
Ans: The value of √2 (square root of 2) is approximately 1.414. Like √3, it is also an irrational number.
Ans: To solve or estimate √3 manually, you can use methods like long division, approximation, or a calculator. One way to estimate is by trying successive squares:
For example,
1.7² = 2.89
1.73² = 2.9929
1.732² ≈ 3.0001 → So √3 ≈ 1.732
Ans: The value of √5 (square root of 5) is approximately 2.236. You can find it using a calculator or by using estimation methods similar to those used for √3.
Learn how to calculate and apply the value of root 3 with step-by-step guidance from Orchids The International School!