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Last updated on May 26th, 2025

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Square Root of -164

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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 and finance. Here, we will discuss the square root of -164.

Square Root of -164 for Indonesian Students
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What is the Square Root of -164?

The square root is the inverse of the square of a number. Since -164 is a negative number, its square root involves imaginary numbers. The square root of -164 is expressed in both radical and exponential form. In the radical form, it is expressed as √(-164), whereas (-164)^(1/2) in the exponential form. The square root of a negative number is an imaginary number, which can be expressed as i√164, where i is the imaginary unit with the property that i² = -1.

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Finding the Square Root of -164

To find the square root of a negative number like -164, we need to recognize that it involves the imaginary unit i. The prime factorization and long division methods do not apply directly to negative numbers since they yield real numbers. However, we can find the square root of the positive counterpart and then multiply it by i. Let's explore the steps:

 

1. Find the square root of 164 using the usual methods.

 

2. Multiply the result by i to account for the negative sign.

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Square Root of 164 by Prime Factorization Method

The product of prime factors is the prime factorization of a number. Here’s how 164 is broken down into its prime factors:

 

Step 1: Finding the prime factors of 164 Breaking it down, we get 2 x 2 x 41: 2² x 41

 

Step 2: Pair the prime factors. Since 164 is not a perfect square, the digits of the number can’t be grouped into pairs for complete pairs.

 

Thus, the square root of 164 is expressed as 2√41, and for -164 as i(2√41).

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Square Root of 164 by Long Division Method

The long division method is typically used for finding the square roots of positive non-perfect square numbers. Here’s how to find the square root of 164 using the long division method, then apply the result to -164:

 

Step 1: Group the numbers from right to left. For 164, group as 64 and 1.

 

Step 2: Find n whose square is 1. Here, n is 1 because 1 x 1 = 1. Subtract 1 from 1, resulting in a remainder of 0.

 

Step 3: Bring down 64, the new dividend. Add the previous divisor 1 to itself to get 2, the new divisor.

 

Step 4: Find n such that 2n x n ≤ 64. Here, n is 8 because 28 x 8 = 224, and 224 is less than 640.

 

Step 5: Subtract 224 from 640 to get a remainder of 416 and continue the process to get more decimal places. Once you find the square root of 164, multiply the result by i for -164.

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Square Root of 164 by Approximation Method

The approximation method is another way to find square roots. Here’s how to find the square root of 164 using the approximation method:

 

Step 1: Identify the closest perfect squares to 164. The nearest perfect squares are 144 (12²) and 169 (13²). Thus, √164 is between 12 and 13.

 

Step 2: Use the approximation formula: (Given number - smallest perfect square) / (Greater perfect square - smallest perfect square). Applying it: (164 - 144) / (169 - 144) = 20 / 25 = 0.8 Add the decimal to the lower bound: 12 + 0.8 = 12.8 For -164, multiply the result by i to get i(12.8).

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Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them in the Square Root of -164

Students often make mistakes while finding square roots, such as forgetting about the imaginary unit when dealing with negative numbers. Let’s explore some common mistakes in detail.

Mistake 1

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Forgetting about the imaginary unit

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It's crucial to remember that the square root of a negative number involves the imaginary unit i.

For example, √(-9) = 3i, not just 3.

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Square Root of -164 Examples

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Max, the Girl Character from BrightChamps

Problem 1

If Max wants to find the result of i times the square root of 138, what will it be?

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The result is approximately 11.75i.

Explanation

To find the result, calculate the square root of 138, which is approximately 11.75, and multiply by i.

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Max, the Girl Character from BrightChamps

Problem 2

A square has an area of -164 square units. What is the side length in terms of imaginary numbers?

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The side length is i√164.

Explanation

The side length of a square is the square root of its area.

For negative areas, use i to denote the imaginary part: i√164.

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Problem 3

Calculate i√164 x 3.

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The result is approximately 38.4i.

Explanation

First, find the square root of 164, which is approximately 12.8, then multiply by 3 and add the imaginary unit: 12.8 x 3 = 38.4, thus 38.4i.

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Problem 4

What is the square root of (138 - 2) in terms of imaginary numbers?

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The square root is approximately 11.66i.

Explanation

First, find the square root of (138 - 2) = 136, which is approximately 11.66.

Thus, the square root of the negative is 11.66i.

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Max, the Girl Character from BrightChamps

Problem 5

If a rectangle has a length of i√138 units and a width of 38 units, what is its perimeter in terms of imaginary numbers?

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The perimeter is approximately 77.48 + 11.66i units.

Explanation

Perimeter of the rectangle = 2 × (length + width), where length = i√138 ≈ 11.66i, width = 38.

Thus, the perimeter = 2 × (11.66i + 38) = 77.48 + 23.32i.

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FAQ on Square Root of -164

1.What is the square root of -164 in its simplest form?

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2.What are the factors of 164?

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3.Calculate the square of -164.

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4.Is 164 a prime number?

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5.Is -164 divisible by any numbers?

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

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7.How can cultural or local activities in Indonesia support learning Algebra topics such as Square Root of -164?

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8.How do technology and digital tools in Indonesia support learning Algebra and Square Root of -164?

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

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Important Glossaries for the Square Root of -164

  • Imaginary Unit: The imaginary unit i is defined such that i² = -1. It is used to express the square roots of negative numbers.

 

  • Square Root: The square root of a number x is a number y such that y² = x. For negative numbers, the square root involves the imaginary unit i.

 

  • Prime Factorization: Breaking down a number into the product of its prime factors. For example, 164 = 2² x 41.

 

  • Perfect Square: A number that is the square of an integer. For example, 144 is a perfect square since 12² = 144.

 

  • Approximation: The process of finding a close estimate of a number, often used for non-perfect squares.
Professor Greenline from BrightChamps

About BrightChamps in Indonesia

At BrightChamps, we believe algebra is more than symbols—it’s a doorway to endless possibilities! We aim to help children throughout Indonesia master key math skills, focusing today on the Square Root of -164 with a special emphasis on square roots—in a way that’s fun, lively, and easy to understand. Whether your child is measuring the speed of a roller coaster at Dunia Fantasi, tracking scores in badminton matches, or managing their allowance for the latest gadgets, mastering algebra builds the confidence they need for everyday problems. Our hands-on lessons make learning simple and enjoyable. Because children in Indonesia learn differently, we tailor our approach to fit each learner’s needs. From Jakarta’s bustling streets to Bali’s scenic beaches, BrightChamps brings math to life, making it relevant and exciting across Indonesia. Let’s make square roots a fun 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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