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Why are only integers considered to be square numbers?

By Emma Valentine
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According to Wikipedia: ...a square number or perfect square is an integer that is the square of an integer...

Is the statement strictly true? And if it is, why are only Integers considered to be square numbers?

For example, if I have a square in the real world, with all sides being 1.5 units. Why is 2.25 not considered a square number? As: $(1.5)^2$ = 2.25

Consider the square root of 2.25. As the result is a Rational number.

$\sqrt{2.25}$ = 1.5

Not a square?

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1 Answer

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Non-Integer numbers can be considered squares, in certain contexts. Although a square number is usually meant to be an Integer. Especially at elementary level, and when it is stated to be a "perfect square".

There is no rigid source of definitions for math terminology.

These statements are based on my understanding, of the comments by other users, on the question above.

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