COMPLEX Function in Excel
The COMPLEX function converts real and imaginary coefficients into a complex number of the form x + yi or x + yj for engineering calculations.
Excel
Google SheetsExcelGoogle Sheets=COMPLEX(real_num, i_num, [suffix])Quick Answer
COMPLEX function COMPLEX function converts real and imaginary coefficients into a complex number of the form x + yi or x + yj. The syntax is `=COMPLEX(real_num, i_num, [suffix])` where real_num is the real coefficient, i_num is the imaginary coefficient, and suffix (optional) specifies 'i' or 'j' notation.
=COMPLEX(real_num, i_num, [suffix])Practical Examples
Basic Complex Number Creation
Create a simple complex number with real and imaginary parts
Complex Number with j Notation
Create complex number using j notation common in electrical engineering
Zero Imaginary Component
Create a complex number that is purely real
Zero Real Component
Create a purely imaginary number
Electrical Impedance Calculation
Calculate impedance in an AC circuit with resistance and reactance
Using Cell References
Build complex numbers from values in cells
Negative Complex Number
Create complex numbers with negative components
Common Errors and Solutions
COMPLEX returns #VALUE! error
Non-numeric values provided for real_num or i_num parameters, or invalid suffix character
1. Ensure real_num and i_num are numeric values 2. Check that suffix is either 'i' or 'j' (case-sensitive) 3. Verify cells referenced contain numbers, not text 4. Remove any extra spaces or characters from inputs
Always validate input data types before using COMPLEX function. Use ISNUMBER() to check values
Example:
Excel doesn't recognize COMPLEX function
Analysis ToolPak add-in not loaded in Excel, or using older Excel version that doesn't support engineering functions
1. In Excel, go to File > Options > Add-ins 2. Select 'Analysis ToolPak' and click Go 3. Check 'Analysis ToolPak' box and click OK 4. Restart Excel if necessary 5. For Google Sheets, function is built-in and doesn't require add-ins
Ensure Analysis ToolPak is enabled before using engineering functions in Excel
Result shows unexpected format or notation
Suffix parameter incorrectly specified or case-sensitive issue with 'i' or 'j'
1. Verify suffix is lowercase 'i' or 'j' (uppercase not accepted) 2. Check for extra spaces in suffix parameter 3. Ensure suffix is enclosed in quotes: "i" or "j" 4. If suffix omitted, function defaults to 'i'
Always use lowercase 'i' or 'j' and enclose in quotes when specifying suffix
Example:
Best Practices and Advanced Tips
Choose the Right Notation
Use 'i' for mathematical contexts and 'j' for electrical engineering applications. The 'j' notation is standard in electrical engineering to avoid confusion with current (i).
Combine with Other Engineering Functions
COMPLEX works seamlessly with other engineering functions like IMABS (magnitude), IMARGUMENT (phase angle), IMSUM, IMPRODUCT, etc. for comprehensive complex number operations.
Enable Analysis ToolPak First
In Excel, always enable Analysis ToolPak add-in before working with engineering functions. Go to File > Options > Add-ins to activate it.
Dynamic Complex Number Arrays
Use COMPLEX with cell ranges to create arrays of complex numbers for batch calculations. This is particularly useful in signal processing and frequency analysis.
Return Type is Text
COMPLEX returns a text string, not a numeric value. To perform calculations, you must use other IMXXX functions (IMSUM, IMPRODUCT, etc.) that recognize complex number text format.
Platform Differences
COMPLEX function works identically in Excel and Google Sheets. However, ensure Analysis ToolPak is enabled in Excel desktop versions. Excel 365 and Google Sheets have it built-in.
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Example Excel formula:
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