answersLogoWhite

0

One way is to get the prime factorization of the number. If every prime occurs an even number of times, it is a square, otherwise, not.

Another is to estimate the square root of the number, and square it. If you get more than the number, try a lower estimate; if less, a higher one. Using interval bisection you very quickly zero in on the square root, if it is a whole number. If so, the number is a perfect square. Otherwise, you find 2 consecutive whole numbers between which is the square root, in which case it is not a perfect square.

User Avatar

Wiki User

12y ago

Still curious? Ask our experts.

Chat with our AI personalities

SteveSteve
Knowledge is a journey, you know? We'll get there.
Chat with Steve
CoachCoach
Success isn't just about winning—it's about vision, patience, and playing the long game.
Chat with Coach
TaigaTaiga
Every great hero faces trials, and you—yes, YOU—are no exception!
Chat with Taiga

Add your answer:

Earn +20 pts
Q: How can you tell if a number is a perfect square?
Write your answer...
Submit
Still have questions?
magnify glass
imp