Learn =ATAN2() function – How to use with example

The ATAN2 function in Excel is used to calculate the arctangent of the ratio of the specified x- and y-coordinates, and returns the angle in radians. This function is helpful when working with trigonometric calculations or when calculating angles between points.

How to use ATAN2() Function in excel:

To use the ATAN2 function in Excel, follow these steps:

  1. Select the cell where you want to display the result.
  2. Type the following formula into the formula bar: =ATAN2(y,x), where “y” and “x” are the coordinates of the point.
  3. Press Enter to calculate the result.
  4. The result will display in the selected cell.

Here are examples of using the ATAN2 function in Excel:

  1. =ATAN2(1, 2) returns 0.463647609 (radians)
  2. =ATAN2(-1, 2) returns -0.463647609 (radians)
  3. =ATAN2(1, -2) returns 2.677945045 (radians)
  4. =ATAN2(-1, -2) returns -2.677945045 (radians)
  5. =ATAN2(0, 1) returns 0 (radians)
  6. =ATAN2(1, 0) returns 1.570796327 (radians)
  7. =ATAN2(-1, 0) returns -1.570796327 (radians)
  8. =ATAN2(0, -1) returns 3.141592654 (radians)
  9. =ATAN2(3, 4) returns 0.643501109 (radians)
  10. =ATAN2(-3, -4) returns -2.498091544 (radians)

Here are some similar functions to the ATAN2 function in Excel:

  1. ATAN Function: The ATAN function in Excel is use to calculate the arctangent of a given number, and returns the angle in radians. Unlike the ATAN2 function, it takes only one argument.
  2. TAN Function: The TAN function in Excel is use to calculate the tangent of a given angle, which is the ratio of the opposite and adjacent sides of a right-angled triangle. It takes one argument in radians.
  3. COS Function: The COS function in Excel is use to calculate the cosine of a given angle, which is the ratio of the adjacent side to the hypotenuse of a right-angled triangle. It takes one argument in radians.
  4. SIN Function: The SIN function in Excel is use to calculate the sine of a given angle, which is the ratio of the opposite side to the hypotenuse of a right-angled triangle. It takes one argument in radians.
  5. ATANH Function: The ATANH function in Excel is used to calculate the inverse hyperbolic tangent of a given number, and returns the angle in radians. It takes only one argument.

FAQ’s for uses of ATAN2 function in excel

What is the difference between ATAN and ATAN2?

ATAN function calculates the arctangent of a given number, while ATAN2 function takes two arguments representing the x and y coordinates of a point and calculates the angle between the positive x-axis and the point.

What is the range of values that ATAN2 function can return?

The ATAN2 function returns values in radians, which range from -π to π.

Can the ATAN2 function return a negative value?

Yes, the ATAN2 function can return a negative value, which indicates an angle in the opposite direction from the positive x-axis.

Can the ATAN2 function handle errors or invalid arguments?

If the arguments given to the ATAN2 function are invalid, such as if they are text or empty cells, the function returns a #VALUE! error.

What are some common applications of the ATAN2 function?

The ATAN2 function is commonly used in engineering, physics, and mathematics to calculate the angle between two points, or to find the direction of an object relative to a reference point.

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