How to use IMREAL function in Excel?

The `IMREAL` function in Excel is used to extract the real part of a complex number. A complex number is typically in the form “a + bi” or “a + bj,” where “a” is the real part and “b” is the imaginary part.

Here’s how to use the `IMREAL` function:

Syntax

IMREAL(inumber)
  • inumber: This is a required argument. It can be a complex number in the form of a text string (e.g., `”3+4i”`), or it can be a cell reference that contains a complex number.

Example Usage

  • Basic Example

If you have the complex number `4+3i` in a cell, say A1, you can use `IMREAL` to get the real part:

   =IMREAL("4+3i")

or if A1 contains the complex number:

   =IMREAL(A1)

In both cases, the result will be `4`.

  • Using IMREAL with Other Functions

You can also combine `IMREAL` with other functions. For example, if you have complex numbers generated by the `COMPLEX` function:

   =IMREAL(COMPLEX(5, -2))

The result will be `5`, as `5` is the real part of the complex number `5-2i`.

Important Notes

  • If the input is not recognized as a valid complex number format, `IMREAL` will return a `#NUM!` error.
  • This function is useful in engineering and mathematical computations where dealing with electrical circuits and signals that can be represented as complex numbers.

By understanding and using the `IMREAL` function, you can efficiently handle and manipulate complex numbers in your Excel worksheets.

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