Certainly, while working in Excel, we may have to deal with imaginary numbers. Luckily, Excel has a palette of functions for calculating complex numbers. In this tutorial, we’ll learn about how to use the IMPRODUCT function in Excel for multiplying two complex numbers. In addition, we’ll also explore its quirks and features.
The above screenshot is an overview of the article, which represents the application of the IMPRODUCT function in Excel. In the following sections, you’ll learn more about the dataset as well as how to use the function.
Introduction to Excel IMPRODUCT Function
- Function Objective:
Simply put, the IMPRODUCT function returns the product of complex numbers, up to a maximum of 255 numbers.
- Syntax:
=IMPRODUCT (inumber1,[inumber2])
- Arguments Explanation:
| Argument | Required/Optional | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| inumber1 | Required | The first complex number |
| [inumber2] | Optional | The second complex number |
- Return Parameter:
In this case, the product of the complex numbers specified in the arguments.
- Version:
For one thing, the IMPRODUCT function was introduced in Excel 2007 and is available in all versions after that.
Excel IMPRODUCT Function: 4 Examples
First and foremost, let’s consider the list of imaginary numbers dataset shown in the B4:C12 cells containing Complex Number 1and Complex Number 2 columns respectively. Here, we want to multiply the two complex numbers using the IMPRODUCT function in Excel. Henceforth, without further delay, let’s see each example in detail and with the necessary illustrations.
Here, we have used the Microsoft Excel 365 version; you may use any other version according to your convenience.
1. Calculating Product of Two Imaginary Numbers
First of all, let’s begin with a simple example of multiplying two complex numbers using the IMPRODUCT function.
📌 Steps:
- Initially, go to the D5 cell >> enter the expression given below.
=IMPRODUCT("1+9i","2-5i")
Here, the “1+9i” and the “2-5i” are the two complex numbers that are multiplied together.
Voila! That is how simple it is to obtain the product of two complex numbers in Excel.
2. Multiplying Real and Imaginary Numbers
In addition, we can multiply a real and complex number to get their product. So, let’s see it in action.
📌 Steps:
- At the very beginning, move to the D5 cell >> type in the expression given below.
=IMPRODUCT(-1,"2-5i")
In this case, the -1 and “2-5i” represent the real and complex numbers respectively.
3. Using Cell Reference to Compute the Product of Complex Numbers
Alternatively, we can specify the cell references of the complex numbers to compute their products. Hence, just follow along.
📌 Steps:
- To begin with, insert the expression into the D5 cell >> drag the Fill Handle tool to copy the formula to the cells.
=IMPRODUCT(B5,C5)
For instance, the B5 and C5 cells indicate the complex numbers “1+9i” and “2-5i”.
4. Combining Excel COMPLEX and IMPRODUCT Functions
For one thing, we can combine the COMPLEX and IMPRODUCT functions to get the results of the multiplication of two complex numbers.
📌 Steps:
- First of all, click the D5 cell >> enter the formula into the formula bar.
=IMPRODUCT(COMPLEX(1,9),COMPLEX(2,-5))
Formula Breakdown
- COMPLEX(1,9) → converts real and imaginary coefficients into complex number. Here, 1 and 9 are the inumber arguments where 1 is the coefficient of the real number and 9 is the coefficient of the complex number
- Output → “1+9i”
- COMPLEX(2,-5) → “2-5i”
- IMPRODUCT(COMPLEX(1,9),COMPLEX(2,-5)) → becomes
- IMPRODUCT(“1+9i”,“2-5i”) → returns the product of complex numbers. Here, “1+9i” and “2-5i” are the inumber arguments.
- Output → “47+13i”
Common Errors While Using the IMPRODUCT Function in Excel
Furthermore, in this section, we’ll discuss the possible errors we may encounter while using the IMPRODUCT function in Excel.
| Error | Occurrence |
|---|---|
| #NUM! | other letters (except “i” and “j”) or non-numeric characters in the argument. |
| #VALUE! | logical values (TRUE or FALSE) in the argument. |
- In the first place, the function may return the #NUM! Error if the inumber argument contains the other letters instead of “i” and “j” or contains any non-numeric characters like “&”, “*”.
- Additionally, we may face the #VALUE! Error in case the inumber argument is a logical value like TRUE or FALSE.
Things to Remember
As a note, here are a few things to note when using the IMPRODUCT function in Excel.
- First, the IMPRODUCT function accepts complex numbers as texts containing only the lowercase letters “i” and “j”.
- Second, it can handle a maximum of 255 complex numbers.
Practice Section
Moreover, we’ve provided a Practice section on the right side of each sheet so you can practice yourself. Please make sure to do it by yourself.
Download Practice Workbook
Conclusion
In essence, this article shows 4 effective ways to use the IMPRODUCT function in Excel. So, read the full article carefully and download the free workbook to practice.
