Finding the nth root of a number on a mobile calculator can be done by using the power key (often represented as x^y, y^x, or ^) along with fractional exponents. The nth root of a number 'x' is equivalent to x raised to the power of 1/n.
Steps to Calculate nth Roots on a Mobile Calculator
Here's how you can do it:
- Enter the Base Number: Input the number for which you want to find the root.
- Press the Power Key: Find the key on your calculator that allows you to raise a number to a power. It is often labeled as
x^y,y^x, or^. - Enter the Fractional Exponent:
- Open parenthesis:
( - Enter
1 - Press the division symbol
/ - Enter the root you want to calculate (e.g. 2 for square root, 3 for cube root).
- Close parenthesis:
)
- Open parenthesis:
- Press the Equals Key: Press
=to compute the result.
Example
Let's say you want to find the cube root (3rd root) of 8. Here are the steps:
- Enter
8 - Press
^(or the power key on your calculator) - Enter
( - Enter
1 - Press
/ - Enter
3 - Enter
) - Press
=
The calculator will display 2, as the cube root of 8 is 2.
Alternate Method using Iteration
While not as precise, another method for calculating nth roots, mentioned in the provided reference and shown in a YouTube video, can be done with a basic calculator. This involves repeated multiplication and addition. Though not practical for most users with modern scientific calculators, here's how it was demonstrated in the video:
- Enter the base number.
- Add one.
- Multiply by the base number
- Add one
- Repeat these steps 10 to 12 times
- The calculator will then give the approximate answer.
Note: This method was demonstrated in a short snippet from a YouTube video and is not recommended for precise calculations. It is more of a manual approximation.
Key Takeaway
Using the power key with fractional exponents (1/n) is the most reliable way to calculate nth roots on your mobile calculator. The other, more tedious method, provided through the video, is not accurate and useful.
