Nth root calculator

Work out a root of any degree — cube, fifth or anything else. The calculator uses the fractional-power form.

Root
4.0000

The root of degree 5 of 1024 is 4.0000.

Formula

y=ⁿ√a = a^(1⁄n)

a is the number under the root and n the degree. Taking a root is raising to the power 1/n.

How we got there

1024^(1⁄5) = 4.0000

With an odd degree the root of a negative number exists and is negative. With an even degree it has no real value.

How to work out an nth root by hand

  1. Turn the root into a power

    The fifth root of 1024 is 1024^(1/5).

  2. Look for the number that works

    You are asking which number to the fifth power gives 1024. The answer is 4, because 4⁵ = 1024.

  3. Check by raising to the power

    Raise your answer to the degree of the root — the original number should come back.

Roots before the exam? a lesson with a Mathema tutor

Frequently asked questions

Four, because 4⁵ = 1024.

Enter the number and a degree of 3. The calculator works out a^(1/3).

With an odd degree yes — the cube root of −8 is −2. With an even degree, no.

Unlock the Mathema lesson library

Leave your email and phone — we will take you through to the Mathema platform and open up the preparation library: problem sets, quizzes and lesson plans written by teachers.

We use your details only to set up the account and get in touch about a lesson. No spam.

Powers still confusing?

Book a free introductory lesson with a Mathema tutor. 30 minutes online, no commitment — we find the gap and the plan to close it.