2.) \( 81^{1 / 2}=9 \)

Did you know that the square root of a number has a rich historical legacy? The concept of square roots dates back to ancient civilizations such as the Babylonians, who had methods for calculating them as early as 2000 BC! They used geometric approaches and later algorithms that formed the basis for our current understanding of mathematical roots, including our friend \(81^{1/2}\), which equals 9! In everyday life, understanding square roots can be incredibly useful, especially in fields like architecture and engineering. For instance, when calculating the area of a square plot, knowing that the square root of the area gives you the length of one side can help streamline project planning. So whether you're building your dream home or just trying to solve a puzzle, understanding how to work with roots can make a world of difference!