How to Use the IMREAL Function in Excel

IMREAL Function in Excel and Google Sheets

Overview

The IMREAL function is designed to extract the real part of a complex number in both Excel and Google Sheets. It is highly beneficial in fields requiring complex number computations such as mathematics, engineering, and physics.

Syntax

The syntax for the IMREAL function is as follows:

IMREAL(inumber)

Where:

  • inumber (required): The complex number from which the real part is to be extracted.

Examples

Below are some examples to demonstrate the use of the IMREAL function in Excel and Google Sheets.

Example 1: Retrieving the Real Part of a Complex Number

Consider a complex number in cell A1 (3+4i). To extract its real part, use the formula:

Complex Number Real Part
3+4i =IMREAL(A1)

This formula returns 3, which is the real part of the complex number 3+4i.

Example 2: Using IMREAL Function in a Calculation

To find the real part of the sum of two complex numbers, follow this example:

Complex Number 1 Complex Number 2 Sum Real Part of Sum
2+3i 3+4i =SUM(A2,B2) =IMREAL(C2)

The real part of the sum (2+3i + 3+4i) is 5.

Example 3: Handling Errors

If IMREAL receives an input that is not a complex number, it returns a #NUM! error:

Input Result
5 =IMREAL(A4)

In this example, the number 5, being a real number and not a complex number, causes Excel or Google Sheets to display the #NUM! error.

The IMREAL function is a versatile tool for extracting the real part from complex numbers, aiding significantly in complex number calculations across various applications.

More information: https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/office/imreal-function-d12bc4c0-25d0-4bb3-a25f-ece1938bf366

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