IMABS Function in Excel
The IMABS function calculates the absolute value (modulus) of a complex number in x+yi or x+yj text format.
Excel
Google SheetsExcelGoogle Sheets=IMABS(inumber)Quick Answer
IMABS function IMABS function calculates the absolute value (modulus) of a complex number in x+yi or x+yj text format. The syntax is `=IMABS(inumber)` where inumber is a complex number in text format.
=IMABS(inumber)Practical Examples
Basic Complex Number Absolute Value
Calculate the absolute value of a simple complex number
Negative Complex Number
Find absolute value with negative components
Complex Number Using j Notation
Engineering notation with j suffix
Pure Imaginary Number
Calculate absolute value when real part is zero
Real Number Only
Complex number with zero imaginary part
Cell Reference with Complex Number
Using IMABS with cell references in electrical engineering
Combined with COMPLEX Function
Create and calculate absolute value dynamically
Common Errors and Solutions
IMABS returns #NUM! error
The text string provided is not recognized as a valid complex number format
Ensure the complex number is in x+yi or x+yj format. Check for spaces or invalid characters. Use COMPLEX function to generate properly formatted complex numbers.
Always use quotes around complex number text or reference cells containing COMPLEX function results
Example:
IMABS returns #VALUE! error
The inumber parameter is not a text string or is completely invalid
Convert your input to text format using quotes or ensure cell contains text. If using numeric values, convert them with COMPLEX function first.
Use =IMABS(COMPLEX(real_part, imaginary_part)) when working with separate numeric values
IMABS returns #NAME? error
IMABS function is not available in your Excel version, or Analysis ToolPak is not enabled
Enable Analysis ToolPak: File > Options > Add-ins > Analysis ToolPak. For older Excel versions, ensure you have the necessary add-in installed.
Verify Excel version supports engineering functions (Excel 2013 or later has built-in support)
Best Practices and Advanced Tips
Understanding Complex Number Format
IMABS accepts complex numbers in the form 'x+yi' or 'x+yj'. The 'i' suffix is mathematical notation while 'j' is common in engineering. Both produce identical results.
Geometric Interpretation
The absolute value (modulus) represents the distance from the origin to the point (x,y) in the complex plane, calculated using the Pythagorean theorem: √(x²+y²).
Combining with Other Complex Functions
Use IMABS with COMPLEX to work with separate real and imaginary parts: =IMABS(COMPLEX(A1,B1)). This is more flexible when components are calculated separately.
Engineering Applications
In electrical engineering, IMABS calculates impedance magnitude. For a circuit with impedance Z=R+jX, use =IMABS(COMPLEX(R,X)) to find |Z|.
Text Format Required
IMABS requires the complex number as text. Entering =IMABS(3+4i) without quotes will cause an error. Always use =IMABS("3+4i") or reference cells containing text.
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Example Excel formula:
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