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Square Root on Graphing Calculator Ti-83

Reviewed by Calculator Editorial Team

Calculating square roots on the TI-83 graphing calculator is straightforward once you know the correct steps. This guide provides detailed instructions, formula explanations, and practical examples to help you master this essential mathematical operation.

How to Calculate Square Root on TI-83

The TI-83 graphing calculator provides multiple methods to calculate square roots. The most common approach uses the square root function (√) available in the math menu. Here's how to use it effectively:

Note: The TI-83 does not have a dedicated square root key. Instead, you use the math menu to access the square root function.

Basic Steps

  1. Turn on your TI-83 calculator and press the 2ND key.
  2. Press the MATH key to access the math menu.
  3. Use the arrow keys to select the √ (square root) function.
  4. Enter the number you want to find the square root of.
  5. Press the ENTER key to calculate the result.

The square root of a number x is a value that, when multiplied by itself, gives x. Mathematically, this is represented as:

√x = y where y × y = x

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these detailed steps to calculate square roots on your TI-83:

Method 1: Using the Math Menu

  1. Press 2ND followed by MATH to access the math menu.
  2. Use the arrow keys to highlight the √ option (usually the first option).
  3. Enter the number you want to find the square root of. For example, to find √16, type 16.
  4. Press ENTER to calculate the result. The calculator will display 4.

Method 2: Using the Y= Editor

  1. Press Y= to access the equation editor.
  2. Move the cursor to the first line (Y1=).
  3. Type √( followed by your number (e.g., √(25)).
  4. Press GRAPH to view the result. The calculator will display the square root.

Tip: For negative numbers, the TI-83 will display an error message. Square roots of negative numbers are not real numbers.

Square Root Formula

The square root function is defined as:

√x = x1/2

Where:

  • x is the number you want to find the square root of
  • √x is the principal (non-negative) square root of x

The square root function is the inverse of squaring a number. For example:

  • √9 = 3 because 3 × 3 = 9
  • √16 = 4 because 4 × 4 = 16
  • √0.25 = 0.5 because 0.5 × 0.5 = 0.25

Worked Examples

Let's look at several practical examples of calculating square roots on the TI-83:

Example 1: Finding √25

  1. Press 2ND then MATH.
  2. Select √.
  3. Enter 25.
  4. Press ENTER.
  5. The calculator displays 5.

Example 2: Finding √100

  1. Press 2ND then MATH.
  2. Select √.
  3. Enter 100.
  4. Press ENTER.
  5. The calculator displays 10.

Example 3: Finding √0.64

  1. Press 2ND then MATH.
  2. Select √.
  3. Enter 0.64.
  4. Press ENTER.
  5. The calculator displays 0.8.

FAQ

How do I calculate a square root on a TI-83?

Press 2ND then MATH, select √, enter your number, and press ENTER. The result will appear on the display.

Can I find square roots of negative numbers on a TI-83?

No, the TI-83 will display an error message for negative numbers. Square roots of negative numbers are not real numbers.

What is the difference between √ and x² on a TI-83?

√ is the square root function, while x² is the square function. √ finds a number that, when multiplied by itself, gives the original number, while x² multiplies a number by itself.

How do I clear the square root calculation from the TI-83?

Press the CLEAR key to reset the calculator and remove any previous calculations.