IMTAN Function in Excel

The IMTAN function returns the tangent of a complex number in x+yi or x+yj text format.

ExcelExcel
Google SheetsGoogle Sheets
engineering
intermediate
Syntax Preview
ExcelExcelGoogle SheetsGoogle Sheets
=IMTAN(inumber)

Practical Examples

Basic Complex Number Tangent

Calculate tangent of a simple complex number

Result: -0.0001873462+1.00007i

Complex Number with Cell Reference

Calculate tangent using a cell reference containing complex number

Result: -0.00999+1.00006i

Using J Suffix Format

Calculate tangent of complex number using j notation (engineering format)

Result: 0.0339+1.0147j

Tangent of Pure Imaginary Number

Calculate tangent of a pure imaginary complex number

Result: 0+0.9999i

Combined with COMPLEX Function

Calculate tangent using dynamically created complex number

Result: -0.00005-1.00009i
Use Cases

Common Errors and Solutions

#NUM!

Cause:

Invalid complex number format or text that cannot be interpreted as complex number

Solution:

Ensure complex number is in correct x+yi or x+yj text format

Example:

#VALUE!

Cause:

Inumber parameter is not recognized as valid text or complex number

Solution:

Check that the input is text string in quotes or cell reference to text

Example:

#NAME?

Cause:

IMTAN function not available (requires Analysis ToolPak in older Excel)

Solution:

Enable Analysis ToolPak add-in or use Excel 2013 or later

Prevention:

Check that Analysis ToolPak is active before using engineering functions

Best Practices and Advanced Tips

Format Consistency

Always use consistent suffix (i or j) throughout calculations

Combine with Other Functions

Use COMPLEX() to build complex numbers from separate real and imaginary parts

Text Format Required

IMTAN requires text format - remember quotes around complex numbers

Engineering Applications

Use j suffix for electrical engineering calculations to match industry standards

Precision Considerations

Complex tangent calculations may have very large values near singularities

Need Help with IMTAN Function in Excel?

Stop struggling with formula syntax. Use AskFormulas to generate validated formulas instantly with our AI-powered tool.

Example Excel formula:

Related Formulas

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.

intermediate
math
ExcelExcel
Google SheetsSheets
Validated
IMABS Function in Excel

The IMABS function calculates the absolute value (modulus) of a complex number in x+yi or x+yj text format.

intermediate
engineering
ExcelExcel
Google SheetsSheets
Validated
IMCOS Function in Excel

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

intermediate
engineering
ExcelExcel
Google SheetsSheets
Validated
IMSIN Function in Excel

Calculate sine of complex numbers in x+yi or x+yj format for electrical engineering, signal processing, and advanced mathematical modeling.

intermediate
engineering
ExcelExcel
Google SheetsSheets
Validated