Author: Oscar Cronquist Article last updated on October 28, 2022

How to use the IMCOS function

The IMCOS function calculates the cosine of a complex number in x + yi or x + yj text format.

The letter j is used in electrical engineering to distinguish between the imaginary value and the electric current.

The cosine of a complex number is calculated like this:
cos(x + yi) = cos(x)*cos(y) - sin(x)*sin(y)i

1. IMCOS Function Syntax

IMCOS(inumber)

Back to top

2. IMCOS Function Arguments

inumber Required. A complex number in x+yi or x+yj text format.

Back to top

3. IMCOS function example

How to use the IMCOS function

The image above demonstrates a formula in cell D3 that calculates the cosine of a complex number specified in cell C3.

Formula in cell D3:

=IMCOS(C3)

3.1 Explaining formula

Step 1 - Populate arguments

IMCOS(inumber)

becomes

IMCOS(C3)

Step 2 - Evaluate IMCOS function

IMCOS(C3)

becomes

IMCOS("2+2i")

and returns

-1.56562583531574-3.29789483631124i

Back to top