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Where Is Cube Root on A Normal Calculator

Reviewed by Calculator Editorial Team

Finding the cube root on a standard calculator requires understanding how to use the square root function and applying the exponent rule. This guide explains where to locate the cube root function, how to calculate it, and the difference between square root and cube root.

How to Find Cube Root on a Calculator

The cube root of a number is a value that, when multiplied by itself three times, gives the original number. Unlike square roots, most standard calculators don't have a dedicated cube root button, but you can find it using the square root function and exponent rules.

Cube Root Formula

For any positive real number a, the cube root can be calculated as:

∛a = a1/3

Step-by-Step Method

  1. Enter the number you want to find the cube root of.
  2. Press the square root button (√).
  3. Press the exponent button (xy) and enter 1/3.
  4. Press the equals button (=) to get the cube root.

Example: To find ∛8, enter 8, press √, then press xy and enter 1/3. The result will be 2.

Difference Between Square Root and Cube Root

The main difference between square roots and cube roots lies in the exponent used:

Root Type Exponent Example
Square Root 1/2 √9 = 91/2 = 3
Cube Root 1/3 ∛27 = 271/3 = 3

Square roots are used more frequently in everyday calculations, while cube roots are more common in advanced mathematics and science applications.

Calculator Methods for Cube Root

Different calculator models may have slightly different methods for finding cube roots:

Scientific Calculator Method

  1. Enter the number.
  2. Press the square root button (√).
  3. Press the exponent button (xy) and enter 1/3.
  4. Press equals (=) to get the result.

Graphing Calculator Method

  1. Enter the number in the display.
  2. Press the [MATH] button.
  3. Select the cube root function (often under "Math" or "Exponents").
  4. Press the equals button to get the result.

Note: Some calculators may have a dedicated cube root button (∛) for easier access.

Common Mistakes When Finding Cube Roots

Avoid these common errors when calculating cube roots:

  • Confusing cube roots with square roots - remember, cube roots use the 1/3 exponent.
  • Forgetting to press the equals button after entering the exponent.
  • Using the wrong order of operations - always perform the square root first, then the exponent.
  • Attempting to find cube roots of negative numbers on basic calculators.

Double-check your calculations, especially when dealing with complex numbers or large exponents.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the cube root button on my calculator?
Most standard calculators don't have a dedicated cube root button. You can find the cube root by first calculating the square root and then using the exponent function to raise to the 1/3 power.
Can I find cube roots of negative numbers?
Yes, but you'll need a scientific calculator that supports complex numbers. The result will be a complex number with an imaginary component.
What's the difference between √ and ∛?
√ (square root) uses the 1/2 exponent, while ∛ (cube root) uses the 1/3 exponent. Square roots are more common in everyday calculations, while cube roots are used more in advanced mathematics.
Why do I need to use the square root first?
You need to use the square root first because the cube root function is derived from the square root function combined with the 1/3 exponent. This is a mathematical requirement for accurate results.