Excel COS function

Description

The COS function returns the cosine of an angle given in radians.

Syntax and arguments

Formula syntax

Arguments

Return Value

The ABS function returns a cosine value (numeric value).

Notes:

1. The (number) argument is the angle in radians.

2. if the (number) argument is the angle in degree, either multiple the PI()/180 or use the RADIANS function to convert the angle to radians. I.e. Calculate the cosine value of degree 60, use this formula =COS(RADIANS(60)) or =COS(60*PI()/180).

Usage and Examples

Here list the basic usages of COS function in your daily work.

Example 1- Calculate the cosine value of a given angle in radians

Formula syntax:

=COS(angle_radians)

Arguments:

Angle_radians: the angle in radians you want to calculate its cosine value.

Supposing the given angle of radian is 1.245, you can use this formula

=COS(1.245)

Example 2- Calculate the cosine value of a given angle in degrees

Formula syntax:

=COS(RADIAN(angle_degrees)
Or
=COS(angle_degrees *PI()/180)

Arguments:

Angle_degrees: the angle in degrees that you want to calculate its cosine value.

Supposing the given angle in degrees is 30, you can use this formula

=COS(RADIANS(30))

Or you can use the formula

=COS(30*PI()/180)

Download Sample File

Relative Functions

• Excel ASIN Function
  The ASIN function calculates the arcsine of a give number, and returns an angle which is in radians between -π/2 and π/2.