What is \( \sqrt{144} \)?

To find the square root of a number, you are looking for the value that, when multiplied by itself, gives the original number.

In this case, ( \sqrt{144} ) is being evaluated. The number 144 can be factored as ( 12 \times 12 ). This means that 12 is the value that, when multiplied by itself (12 x 12), results in 144. Therefore, ( \sqrt{144} = 12 ).

Understanding square roots is crucial, as they relate directly to the concept of perfect squares. Since 144 is a perfect square, its square root is a whole number, which is exactly what 12 is. Thus, the answer is indeed 12, confirming that B is the accurate choice.