Squared Symbol (²)

Your comprehensive resource for the squared symbol (²). Learn how to type, copy, and use the superscript 2 symbol across different platforms and applications.

Copy Squared Symbol

²

What is the Squared Symbol?

Mathematical Symbol

The squared symbol (²) represents the operation of multiplying a number by itself. For example, 5² equals 5 × 5 = 25.

Unicode Character

It's a standardized Unicode character (U+00B2) that represents a superscript 2, ensuring consistent display across different devices and platforms.

Alternative Names

Also known as superscript 2, superscripted 2, or the power of 2 symbol. In mathematics, it indicates squaring a number or raising it to the second power.

Historical Usage

The practice of using superscript numbers to indicate powers dates back to the 16th century, making the squared symbol one of the oldest mathematical notations still in use.

How to Type a Squared Symbol

💻

Windows

Using Alt Code

Alt + 0178

  1. Hold down the Alt key
  2. Type 0178 on the numeric keypad
  3. Release the Alt key

Note: Make sure Num Lock is on

Character Map

  1. Open Character Map (Windows key + R, type 'charmap')
  2. Find and select the ² symbol
  3. Click 'Select' then 'Copy'

Microsoft Word

  1. Type '2'
  2. Select the '2'
  3. Press Ctrl + Shift + Plus sign
  4. Alternatively, use the equation editor
🍎

Mac

Keyboard Shortcut

Option + 2

  1. Hold down the Option (⌥) key
  2. Press 2

Character Viewer

  1. Press Control + Command + Space
  2. Search for 'superscript 2'
  3. Double-click to insert
📱

Mobile Devices

iOS

  1. Long press the number 2 key
  2. Select ² from the popup menu

Note: Works in most text input fields

Android

  1. Long press the number 2 key
  2. Slide to select ²
  3. Or switch to symbols keyboard (123) then press more symbols (?123)
💡

Common Software

Google Docs

  1. Click 'Insert' > 'Special characters'
  2. Search for 'superscript 2'
  3. Or use Format > Text > Superscript after typing 2

LaTeX

^2 or \squared

  1. Use x^2 for inline math mode
  2. Or \squared in text mode with appropriate package
🌐

HTML/CSS

HTML Entity

²

  1. Use ² entity
  2. Or use Unicode ²
  3. Or use <sup>2</sup> tags

CSS

  1. Use vertical-align: super
  2. Or font-size: smaller with position: relative

Note: Best for styling superscript text

⌨️

Programming IDEs

Visual Studio Code

  1. Use Unicode escape sequence '\u00B2'
  2. Or install Math Input extension
  3. Or use Emoji & Symbols picker (Cmd/Ctrl + I)

JetBrains IDEs

  1. Press Ctrl + Alt + Shift + U
  2. Type '00B2' (Unicode)
  3. Or use Symbol completion plugins

Common Uses

Mathematics

Used in algebraic expressions and equations to denote the square of a number or variable.

x² + y² = r²5² = 25a² + b² = c²

Science

Common in scientific formulas and equations, particularly in physics and chemistry.

E = mc²F = ma = kg·m/s²m/s²

Area Measurements

Used to indicate square units in area calculations.

100 m²50 km²25 ft²

Chemistry

Used in chemical formulas and equations.

CO₂SO₄²⁻Fe²⁺

Frequently Asked Questions

Why isn't the squared symbol working in my document?

If the squared symbol isn't displaying correctly, ensure you're using a font that supports Unicode characters. Most modern fonts support the squared symbol, but some older or specialized fonts might not.

Can I use the squared symbol in programming?

Yes, you can use the squared symbol in programming, but it's generally recommended to use the caret (^) or double asterisk (**) operators instead, as they're more widely supported across programming languages.

Is the squared symbol the same on all devices?

Yes, the squared symbol (²) is a standard Unicode character (U+00B2) and will appear the same across all devices that support Unicode, though the exact appearance might vary slightly depending on the font used.

How do I type squared symbol on my phone?

On most smartphones, you can access the squared symbol by long-pressing the number 2 on your keyboard, or by switching to the symbols keyboard. Some keyboards might require you to install a mathematical symbols keyboard.

Will the squared symbol work in emails?

Yes, the squared symbol works in emails as it's a standard Unicode character. It will display correctly in all modern email clients and web browsers.