Excel SQRT Function

The SQRT function in Microsoft Excel calculates the square root of a number. It is commonly used in mathematical, scientific, and engineering calculations, such as finding distances or normalizing data.

Key Topics

Overview of SQRT Function

The SQRT function returns the positive square root of a non-negative number. It is useful for geometric calculations, statistical analysis, or any scenario requiring the square root of a value.

SQRT Function Syntax

The syntax for the SQRT function is as follows:

Syntax: =SQRT(number)

Parameters:

  • number: The non-negative number to calculate the square root of (required).

Implementation Examples

Below are examples of how to use the SQRT function in different scenarios.

Example 1: =SQRT(B2) — Returns the square root of the value in B2.

Example 2: =SQRT(B2*C2) — Calculates the square root of the product of B2 and C2.

Example 3: =SQRT(ABS(B2)) — Ensures a non-negative input by using ABS with SQRT.

Sample Dataset (Excel-style View)

Below is a demo dataset styled like Excel, showing how the SQRT function can be used to calculate side lengths from areas.

A B C
1 Plot Area (sq m) Side Length (m)
2 Plot A 25 =SQRT(B2)
3 Plot B 49 =SQRT(B3)
4 Plot C 100 =SQRT(B4)
5 Plot D 144 =SQRT(B5)
6 Plot E 64 =SQRT(B6)

Note: In the dataset, column C uses =SQRT(B2) to calculate the side length of a square plot from its area in column B. For example, cell C2 computes the square root for Plot A’s area.

Key Takeaways

  • The SQRT function calculates the positive square root of a non-negative number.
  • It requires a non-negative input, or an error (#NUM!) occurs.
  • It can be combined with other functions, e.g., =SQRT(ABS(B2)).
  • Common uses include geometric calculations and statistical analysis.
  • The sample dataset demonstrates SQRT applied to calculate side lengths from plot areas.