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Last updated on May 26th, 2025

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Square Root of -196

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If a number is multiplied by the same number, the result is a square. The inverse of the square is a square root. The square root is used in various fields such as vehicle design, finance, etc. Here, we will discuss the square root of -196.

Square Root of -196 for Australian Students
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What is the Square Root of -196?

The square root is the inverse of the square of a number. -196 is not a perfect square, and its square root involves complex numbers because it is negative. The square root of -196 is expressed in both radical and exponential form. In the radical form, it is expressed as √(-196), whereas (-196)^(1/2) in the exponential form. The principal square root of -196 is 14i, which is an imaginary number because it involves the imaginary unit i, where i^2 = -1.

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Understanding the Square Root of Negative Numbers

Negative numbers do not have real square roots because no real number squared gives a negative result. Instead, we use imaginary numbers to represent such square roots. The imaginary unit 'i' is used where i^2 = -1. Thus, the square root of -196 is 14i. Let's explore how to calculate and understand this:

 

1. Identify the positive counterpart: √(-196) = √(196) * √(-1)

 

2. Calculate the square root of the positive part: √196 = 14

 

3. Incorporate the imaginary unit: √(-196) = 14i

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Calculating the Square Root of -196

To calculate the square root of -196, follow these steps:

 

Step 1: Recognize that -196 is negative, requiring the use of the imaginary unit i.

 

Step 2: Find the square root of the absolute value of -196, which is 196. √196 = 14

 

Step 3: Combine this with the imaginary unit. Thus, √(-196) = 14i

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Common Mistakes When Working with Imaginary Numbers

When dealing with square roots of negative numbers, students often make errors. Some of these mistakes include: - Forgetting to use the imaginary unit 'i': Remember, the square root of a negative number involves 'i'. - Misinterpreting i^2: It's crucial to remember that i^2 = -1. - Confusing real and imaginary results: Ensure clarity between real numbers and imaginary numbers.

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Applications of Imaginary Numbers

Imaginary numbers have applications in various fields. Here are a few examples: - Electrical engineering uses complex numbers to analyze AC circuits. - Quantum mechanics relies on complex numbers to describe wave functions. - Control theory and signal processing use imaginary numbers for system analysis.

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Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them in the Square Root of -196

Students may make mistakes while working with square roots of negative numbers. Here, we address some common ones:

Mistake 1

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Forgetting the Imaginary Unit 'i'

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It's vital to remember that the square root of a negative number involves the imaginary unit 'i'. Not including 'i' leads to incorrect results.

For example, forgetting that √(-196) = 14i.

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Square Root of -196 Examples

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Problem 1

Can you help Max find the principal square root of -49?

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The principal square root of -49 is 7i.

Explanation

The square root of -49 involves the imaginary unit.

First, find the square root of 49, which is 7.

Then, include the imaginary unit: √(-49) = 7i.

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Problem 2

What is the result of multiplying √(-16) by √(-4)?

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The result is 8i.

Explanation

First, find the square roots: √(-16) = 4i and √(-4) = 2i.

Multiply them: (4i) * (2i) = 8i^2.

Since i^2 = -1, the result is 8(-1) = -8.

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Problem 3

Calculate 3 times the square root of -81.

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The result is 27i.

Explanation

First, find the square root of -81, which is 9i.

Then multiply by 3: 3 * 9i = 27i.

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Problem 4

If you add √(-64) and √(-36), what is the result?

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The result is 10i.

Explanation

First, find the square roots: √(-64) = 8i and √(-36) = 6i.

Add them: 8i + 6i = 14i.

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Problem 5

Determine the perimeter of a rectangle if its length is √(-144) units and the width is 10 units.

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The perimeter is 20 + 24i units.

Explanation

Find the square root of -144, which is 12i.

The perimeter is 2 × (length + width) = 2 × (12i + 10) = 24i + 20.

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FAQ on Square Root of -196

1.What is √(-196) in its simplest form?

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2.How do you express i in terms of its powers?

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3.What is the square of i?

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4.Can negative numbers have real square roots?

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5.How are imaginary numbers used in real life?

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6.How does learning Algebra help students in Australia make better decisions in daily life?

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7.How can cultural or local activities in Australia support learning Algebra topics such as Square Root of -196?

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8.How do technology and digital tools in Australia support learning Algebra and Square Root of -196?

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9.Does learning Algebra support future career opportunities for students in Australia?

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Important Glossaries for the Square Root of -196

  • Square root: The inverse of squaring a number. For negative numbers, it involves imaginary numbers. Example: √(-4) = 2i.

 

  • Imaginary number: A number that involves the imaginary unit i, where i^2 = -1. Example: 3i.

 

  • Complex number: A number comprising a real part and an imaginary part. Example: 2 + 3i.

 

  • Principal square root: The non-negative square root of a positive number, or the primary imaginary root for a negative number. Example: √(-9) = 3i.

 

  • Imaginary unit 'i': The fundamental unit of imaginary numbers, defined as the square root of -1, i.e., i^2 = -1.
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About BrightChamps in Australia

At BrightChamps, we believe algebra is more than symbols—it opens doors to endless opportunities! Our mission is to help children all over Australia gain important math skills, focusing today on the Square Root of -196 with a special emphasis on understanding square roots—in a lively, fun, and easy-to-grasp way. Whether your child is calculating the speed of a roller coaster at Luna Park Sydney, tracking cricket match scores, or managing their allowance for the newest gadgets, mastering algebra gives them the confidence to tackle everyday problems. Our interactive lessons make learning both simple and enjoyable. Since children in Australia learn in various ways, we adapt our approach to fit each learner’s style. From Sydney’s vibrant streets to the stunning Gold Coast beaches, BrightChamps brings math to life, making it relevant and exciting throughout Australia. Let’s make square roots a joyful part of every child’s math journey!
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Jaskaran Singh Saluja

About the Author

Jaskaran Singh Saluja is a math wizard with nearly three years of experience as a math teacher. His expertise is in algebra, so he can make algebra classes interesting by turning tricky equations into simple puzzles.

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Fun Fact

: He loves to play the quiz with kids through algebra to make kids love it.

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