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Last updated on May 26th, 2025

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Square Root of -60

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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 engineering, finance, etc. Here, we will discuss the square root of -60.

Square Root of -60 for Thai Students
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What is the Square Root of -60?

The square root is the inverse of squaring a number. Since -60 is a negative number, it does not have a real square root. The square root of -60 is expressed in terms of imaginary numbers. In radical form, it is expressed as √-60, which can be simplified to 2√15 * i, where i is the imaginary unit with the property that i² = -1.

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Imaginary Unit and Its Significance

The imaginary unit, denoted as i, is used to represent the square roots of negative numbers. It is defined by the property i² = -1. Using the imaginary unit, we can express the square root of any negative number. In practical applications, imaginary numbers are used in complex number calculations which are significant in fields like electrical engineering and control systems.

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Square Root of -60 by Simplifying

To find the square root of -60, we first consider the positive part, 60. The prime factorization of 60 is 2 x 2 x 3 x 5. Hence, the square root of 60 can be expressed as √60 = √(2² x 3 x 5) = 2√15. Since the original number is negative, we multiply by i, giving us the square root of -60 as 2√15 * i.

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Complex Numbers and Their Applications

Complex numbers, of which imaginary numbers are a part, are numbers of the form a + bi, where a and b are real numbers, and i is the imaginary unit. Complex numbers are crucial in various fields, including physics, engineering, and applied mathematics, allowing for the analysis of waveforms, electrical circuits, and more.

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Understanding Square Roots of Negative Numbers

The square root of a negative number is always an imaginary number since no real number squared gives a negative result. This property allows us to extend the real number system to include complex numbers, enabling solutions to equations that have no real solutions.

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Practical Examples Involving Imaginary Numbers

Imaginary numbers often appear in physics and engineering, particularly in solving differential equations and in the analysis of electrical circuits. They help in representing quantities with both magnitude and direction, such as impedance in AC circuits, which is a complex number consisting of resistance (real part) and reactance (imaginary part).

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Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them in Understanding the Square Root of -60

Students often make mistakes when dealing with square roots of negative numbers, such as ignoring the imaginary unit or misapplying the properties of real numbers. Let's explore some common errors and how to avoid them.

Mistake 1

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Ignoring the Imaginary Unit

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One common mistake is ignoring the imaginary unit when calculating the square root of a negative number. Remember, the square root of a negative number involves the imaginary unit i.

For example, √-60 should be expressed as 2√15 * i, not just 2√15.

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Square Root of -60 Examples

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Problem 1

Find the square root of -60 in terms of i.

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2√15 * i

Explanation

The square root of -60 is found by separating the negative sign as i.

We first calculate the square root of 60, which is 2√15, and then multiply by i to account for the negative sign: √-60 = √60 * √-1 = 2√15 * i.

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Problem 2

What is the square of 2√15 * i?

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-60

Explanation

The square of 2√15 * i is calculated as follows: (2√15 * i)² = (2√15)² * i² = 4 * 15 * (-1) = -60.

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Problem 3

If 3i is multiplied by √-60, what is the result?

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-90i

Explanation

To find the result, multiply 3i by √-60, which is 2√15 * i: 3i * 2√15 * i = 6√15 * i² = 6√15 * (-1) = -6√15.

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Problem 4

Express the square root of -60 as a complex number.

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0 + 2√15 * i

Explanation

The square root of -60 is purely imaginary, so it can be expressed as the complex number 0 + 2√15 * i, where the real part is 0 and the imaginary part is 2√15.

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Problem 5

Simplify the expression i√-60.

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-2√15

Explanation

Simplifying i√-60 involves recognizing that √-60 = 2√15 * i.

Therefore, i * √-60 = i * (2√15 * i) = 2√15 * (i²) = 2√15 * (-1) = -2√15.

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FAQ on Square Root of -60

1.What is √-60 in terms of imaginary numbers?

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2.Why is the square root of a negative number imaginary?

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3.Can the square root of -60 be a real number?

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4.Is -60 a complex number?

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5.What is the principal square root of -60?

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

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7.How can cultural or local activities in Thailand support learning Algebra topics such as Square Root of -60?

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8.How do technology and digital tools in Thailand support learning Algebra and Square Root of -60?

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

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Important Glossaries for the Square Root of -60

  • Square root: The square root of a number x is a number y such that y² = x. For negative numbers, this involves imaginary numbers.
     
  • Imaginary unit (i): A mathematical constant defined by the property i² = -1, allowing the square root of negative numbers to be expressed.
     
  • Complex number: A number of the form a + bi, where a and b are real numbers and i is the imaginary unit.
     
  • Real number: Any positive or negative number, including zero, that does not involve the imaginary unit. 
     
  • Prime factorization: The expression of a number as a product of its prime factors, used to simplify roots.
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About BrightChamps in Thailand

At BrightChamps, we understand algebra is more than just symbols—it opens up a world of opportunities! Our mission is to help children across Thailand develop essential math skills, focusing today on the Square Root of -60 with a special look at square roots—in a lively, enjoyable, and easy-to-follow manner. Whether your child is discovering the speed of a roller coaster at Dream World, tallying local football scores, or managing their allowance to buy the latest gadgets, mastering algebra gives them confidence for everyday life. Our interactive lessons make learning fun and straightforward. Since children in Thailand have varied learning styles, we personalize our approach for each child. From Bangkok’s busy streets to Phuket’s tropical islands, BrightChamps brings math to life, making it relatable and exciting throughout Thailand. 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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