
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.