Squares and cubes are the building blocks of arithmetic and algebra. Understanding the square of a number means multiplying it by itself once, while the cube of a number means multiplying it by itself twice more (three times in total). These concepts are essential for solving real-life math problems and are especially helpful for students preparing for competitive exams.
Let’s understand the meaning of square and cube numbers, explore formulas, see solved examples, and download square and cube charts.
Table of Contents
A square is the result of multiplying a number by itself once.
Example: 4² = 4 × 4 = 16
A cube is the result of multiplying a number by itself twice more.
Example: 5³ = 5 × 5 × 5 = 125
The notation used is:
Square: n²
Cube: n³
The square of a number is written using the exponent 2.
Example:
7² = 7 × 7 = 49
12² = 12 × 12 = 144
These are also called perfect square numbers.
The cube of a number is written using the exponent 3.
Example:
3³ = 3 × 3 × 3 = 27
6³ = 6 × 6 × 6 = 216
These are known as perfect cube numbers.
Number |
Square (n²) |
Cube (n³) |
1 |
1 |
1 |
2 |
4 |
8 |
3 |
9 |
27 |
4 |
16 |
64 |
5 |
25 |
125 |
... |
... |
... |
20 |
400 |
8000 |
... |
... |
... |
50 |
2500 |
125000 |
Example 1:
Find the value of 9³ – 19².
Solution:
9³ = 729
19² = 361
Answer: 729 – 361 = 368
Example 2:
If b² = 2209, find the value of b.
Solution:
Since 47² = 2209, therefore b = 47
Example 3:
Find the volume of a cube with edge = 8 units.
Solution:
Volume = a³ = 8³ = 512 cubic units
Find the area of a square field whose side = 23 m.
Evaluate: 12² + 13³
What is the sum of cubes of first 5 natural numbers?
Is 64 a square and a cube number?
What is the cube of 40?
Used in calculating area (square) and volume (cube)
Found in geometry, algebra, and measurements
Common in engineering and construction estimations
Helps in competitive exams (like NTSE, Olympiads, etc.)
Applies in physics for energy and work calculations
Knowing the squares and cubes of numbers helps you solve problems faster and strengthens your number sense. Whether you're calculating areas, volumes, or simplifying algebraic expressions, square and cube values are vital tools. Learn them, practice daily, and keep a chart nearby for reference.
Related Links :
Square root :Want to simplify big numbers?
Perfect square : Confused about what makes a number a perfect square?
Ans: Squares are numbers multiplied by themselves once, and cubes are multiplied by themselves thrice.
Ans: Yes, 64 is both a square (8²) and a cube (4³).
Ans: Square of 20 = 400; Cube of 20 = 8000
Ans: Yes, 8 = 2³, so it is a perfect cube number.
Ans: Practice daily using a square and cube chart, and solve real-life math problems using them.
Learn faster with examples, practice questions, and expert explanations at Orchids The International School!