BESSELI Function

Excel 2007+

Summary

The BESSELI function computes the modified Bessel function of the first kind, essential for engineering analysis involving wave propagation, heat transfer, and vibration problems. It evaluates the Bessel function for purely imaginary arguments, providing real-valued results for complex physical modeling.

Syntax

BESSELI(X, N)

Parameters

Parameter Type Required Description
X Number Yes The value at which to evaluate the modified Bessel function
N Number Yes The order of the Bessel function (non-negative integer or truncated value)

Using the BESSELI Function

BESSELI is primarily used in advanced engineering and scientific calculations where modified Bessel functions appear naturally. Common applications include solving cylindrical heat conduction problems, analyzing axisymmetric vibrations, and modeling electromagnetic wave propagation in cylindrical coordinates.

Common BESSELI Examples

Basic BESSELI Calculation

=BESSELI(1.5, 1)

Returns 0.981666428, the modified Bessel function I₁(1.5) of order 1 at x=1.5

Zero Order Bessel Function

=BESSELI(2, 0)

Calculates I₀(2), the modified Bessel function of order 0 at x=2 (result ≈ 2.279585)

Frequently Asked Questions

BESSELI returns #NUM! error when N < 0.

Yes, non-integer values are truncated toward zero before calculation.

BESSELI returns #VALUE! error for non-numeric inputs.

Common Errors and Solutions

#VALUE!

Cause: X or N argument is non-numeric

Solution: Ensure both arguments contain valid numbers

#NUM!

Cause: N is negative

Solution: Use N ≥ 0

#NAME?

Cause: Function name misspelled

Solution: Use exact spelling: BESSELI

Notes

  • Modified Bessel functions grow exponentially rather than oscillate
  • Ideal for steady-state heat conduction in cylinders
  • Common in nuclear reactor design and fluid dynamics
  • Results are always real and non-negative for real inputs

Compatibility

Available in: Excel 2007, Excel 2010, Excel 2013, Excel 2016, Excel 2019, Excel 2021, Microsoft 365

Not available in: Excel 2003 and earlier

Content last reviewed: December 9, 2025
Update frequency: As needed
Excel versions tested: Excel 2007+