Explore Unicode 00B2
The code point U+00B2 indicates the Superscript Two character. which looks like a smaller 2 that is written a little higher from the baseline. This character exists in the Latin-1 Supplement block in Unicode, and it was included in Unicode category 1.1.
Uses of Unicode code point 00B2
Unicode U+00B2 is a superscript 2, which is mostly used to show the “squared” symbol, or the number 2 in superscript form. Here are some common use cases and places where it’s useful:
Mathematical Expressions:
This Unicode 00B2 is used for representing squares, like in area calculations, or to denote the power of a number, for example,
- Example: 5² (five squared = 25)
- x2x^2×2 written as x²
Scientific Writing:
In scientific writing, code point U+00B2 is used to show squared units such as:
- Square meters (m²)
- square centimeters (cm²)
- Square kilometers (km²)
Technical and Engineering Documents:
In technical reports, engineering designs, and specification sheets, the Unicode U+00B2 is commonly used to:
- Show area measurements (like floor area, surface area)
- Show forces per square unit (like pressure in N/m²)
How to Use U+00B2?
If you want to use the superscript two (²) symbol in your text, you just need to know its Unicode 00B2. You can easily add the symbol to your software applications. Here are some simple ways to write in Windows and Mac:
On Windows:
- Hold the Alt key
- Type 0 0 B 2
- Release the Alt key
- This will insert the ² symbol.
On Mac:
- Hold Alt ⌥
- Then type 0 0 B 2
- Release Alt.
Faq’s
Where should we not use “superscript 2”?
You should avoid using U+00B2 when you can apply proper formatting with superscript styles in word processors or HTML/CSS, for example, <sup>2</sup>. Also, don’t use it to represent the normal digit “2”.
Why do we use Unicode U+00B2 instead of a Regular “2”?
A regular number 2 is written along the baseline, while the superscript two (²) is smaller and lifted above the normal text. This makes the intent clear that you are showing an exponent or squared value, which improves readability and meaning. Using code point 00B2 is better than styling a normal 2 as superscript because:
- It works in plain text environments
- It consists of almost all fonts and systems
- It stays consistent on every platform
Can we use “2 superscripts” in social media?
We can use a superscript of the number 2 in our social media captions. It is commonly used for mathematical or scientific notation, but it is accepted on platforms like Instagram and others. Your social media platform will display the “²” character, so you can use it to show a square, for example, cm², m², etc.
