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→This is really a usage question
I think we all understand the point that there are two solutions to the equation
I think we all understand the point that there are two solutions to the equation
x<sup>2</sup> = 9
:x<sup>2</sup> = 9
so what's at stake here is a question of usage: in mathematics and elsewhere, what is the customary meaning of the phrase ''square root'' (does it refer to both solutions to that equation, or only to the positive solution); what is the customary meaning of the radical sign? Usage questions can't be answered by logical reasoning; they always require finding an authority for the usage.
so what's at stake here is a question of usage: in mathematics and elsewhere, what is the customary meaning of the phrase ''square root'' (does it refer to both solutions to that equation, or only to the positive solution); what is the customary meaning of the radical sign? Usage questions can't be answered by logical reasoning; they always require finding an authority for the usage.