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IMSQRT Function
Summary
The IMSQRT function calculates the square root of a complex number provided in x+yi or x+yj format. This engineering function handles mathematical operations on complex numbers that Excel's standard SQRT cannot process.
Syntax
IMSQRT(inumber)Parameters
| Parameter | Type | Required | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| inumber | Complex Number |
Yes | A complex number for which you want the square root. Use COMPLEX function to create from real/imaginary parts. |
Using the IMSQRT Function
IMSQRT enables complex number mathematics in Excel, particularly useful in electrical engineering, physics, and advanced mathematics where square roots of negative or complex values are needed. Combine with COMPLEX to convert real/imaginary coefficients.
Common IMSQRT Examples
Basic Complex Square Root
=IMSQRT("1+i")Calculates square root of 1+i, returning approximately 1.0987+0.4551i
Using COMPLEX Helper
=IMSQRT(COMPLEX(3,-4))Square root of 3-4i using COMPLEX to create the input
Pure Imaginary
=IMSQRT("0+i")Square root of i returns approximately 0.7071+0.7071i
Frequently Asked Questions
Common Errors and Solutions
#NUM! error
Cause: Invalid complex number format
Solution: Ensure proper x+yi format or use COMPLEX function
#VALUE! error
Cause: Non-text or invalid complex input
Solution: Verify input is valid complex number text
Notes
- Principal square root (non-negative real part) is returned
- Use COMPLEX to create complex numbers from separate real/imaginary parts
- Part of Excel's 60+ complex number functions
- Available since Excel 2007
Compatibility
Available in: Excel 2007, Excel 2010, Excel 2013, Excel 2016, Excel 2019, Excel 2021, Excel for Microsoft 365, Excel for Mac (2011+)
Not available in: Excel 2003 and earlier
Content last reviewed: December 9, 2025
Update frequency: As needed
Excel versions tested: Excel 2007+