Calculating Square Roots

I came across this mathematical problem in today' MacGeekery feed and, while I knew the basic properties necessary to solve it .i.e using the Pythagorean Theorem (a^2+b^2=c^2) I realized that I don't remember ever learning how to do calculate square roots manually. Now, I make no claims as a math expert (or even novice), but it seems I should have learned that somewhere in my educational career.

Oh well, off to all things Google for a bit of home schooling...

This site, HomeSchoolMath.net provides 3 clear methods of calculating square roots without a calculator. What's even more important is, I think I understand them.

I guess you learn something new everyday! (SMILE)

Hmmm...what's next. Maybe I could attack those quadratic equations that gave me such fits in high school? Naaaaaah!

Smarta**

Two metal poles, one 25ft high and the other 60ft high, are connected by a piece of wire that's attached to both poles at the top. The wire is stretched perfectly tight between the poles.If the poles are 60ft apart, how long is the wire?

Read the answer...

(Via Mac Geekery - Get your geek on..)

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