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How You Calculate Square Root Three in Calculator

Reviewed by Calculator Editorial Team

The square root of three (√3) is an irrational number approximately equal to 1.73205080757. Calculating √3 using a calculator is straightforward, but understanding the process helps you verify results and use the value in mathematical problems.

How to Calculate √3

Calculating the square root of three involves using a calculator's square root function. Here's a step-by-step guide:

  1. Turn on your calculator and ensure it's in the standard mode.
  2. Enter the number 3.
  3. Press the square root (√) button.
  4. The calculator will display the result: approximately 1.73205080757.

Formula: √3 ≈ 1.73205080757

Most scientific calculators have a dedicated √ button. If your calculator doesn't have one, you can use the exponent function (yˣ) by entering 3 and then 0.5 (since √3 = 3^(1/2)).

Different Methods to Calculate √3

Using a Calculator

The most common method is using a calculator's square root function, as described above. This is the fastest and most accurate method for most practical purposes.

Using a Computer or Programming

In programming languages like Python, JavaScript, or MATLAB, you can calculate √3 using built-in functions:

Python Example:

import math
print(math.sqrt(3))  # Output: 1.7320508075688772

Manual Calculation

While not practical for most users, you can estimate √3 using methods like the Babylonian method (also known as Heron's method):

  1. Start with an initial guess (e.g., 1.7).
  2. Improve the guess using the formula: (guess + 3/guess)/2.
  3. Repeat until the result stabilizes.

This method is time-consuming and less accurate than using a calculator.

Worked Examples

Example 1: Basic Calculation

Calculate √3 using a calculator:

  1. Enter 3 on the calculator.
  2. Press the √ button.
  3. The result is approximately 1.73205080757.

Example 2: Using Exponent Function

If your calculator doesn't have a √ button, use the exponent function:

  1. Enter 3.
  2. Press the exponent (yˣ) button.
  3. Enter 0.5.
  4. The result is approximately 1.73205080757.

Example 3: Verification

Verify that 1.73205080757² ≈ 3:

  1. Enter 1.73205080757.
  2. Press the exponent (yˣ) button.
  3. Enter 2.
  4. The result should be approximately 3.

FAQ

What is the exact value of √3?
The exact value of √3 is an irrational number that cannot be expressed as a simple fraction. It's approximately 1.73205080757.
How accurate is the calculator's √3 result?
Modern scientific calculators provide results accurate to at least 10 decimal places, which is sufficient for most practical purposes.
Can I calculate √3 without a calculator?
Yes, but manual methods are time-consuming and less accurate. Using a calculator is the most practical approach.
Is √3 used in real-world applications?
Yes, √3 appears in geometry (equilateral triangles), engineering, and physics calculations involving 30-60-90 triangles.
What if my calculator doesn't have a √ button?
Use the exponent function (yˣ) by entering 3 and then 0.5, as described in the examples.