DECIMAL
The DECIMAL function is used in Excel to convert a text representation of a number in a specific base to its decimal equivalent.
Example explanation
Cells in column B use the DECIMAL function to convert the binary numbers in column A to a decimal number. Cells in column E use the DECIMAL function to convert the hexadecimal numbers in column D to a decimal number.
Syntax 🔗
=DECIMAL(Text, Radix)
Text | The text representation of the number in the specified base. |
Radix | The base of the number system used in the text. Must be an integer between 2 and 36. |
About DECIMAL 🔗
When you encounter numbers represented in different bases, such as binary, octal, or hexadecimal, and need to perform calculations involving these numbers in Excel, the DECIMAL function comes to your rescue. It aids in converting numbers from a specific base to the familiar decimal system, facilitating further mathematical operations with ease and accuracy.
Utilizing the DECIMAL function requires you to provide two essential parameters: the text representation of the number in the selected base and the radix (base) in which the number system is expressed. The function then translates the given text into a decimal format, enabling seamless integration of the converted numeric values into your calculations or analyses in Excel.
A notable feature of the DECIMAL function lies in its flexibility regarding the base of the input numbers. The function accommodates various number systems, from binary (base 2) to hexadecimal (base 16) and beyond, broadening its utility across diverse numerical contexts.
With DECIMAL at your disposal, you can efficiently handle conversions between different number bases, ensuring the accurate representation of numeric values and empowering your spreadsheet computations with comprehensive numerical capabilities.
Examples 🔗
Suppose you have the binary number '10101' that you want to convert to decimal. The DECIMAL formula would be:
=DECIMAL('10101', 2)
This will return the decimal equivalent of the binary number '10101'.
Consider you have the octal number '56' that you wish to convert to decimal. The DECIMAL formula would be:
=DECIMAL('56', 8)
This will provide the decimal representation of the octal number '56'.
Notes 🔗
Ensure that the text representation of the number in the selected base accurately corresponds to the specified radix to obtain correct decimal conversions. The DECIMAL function supports radix values between 2 and 36, allowing for a wide range of base conversions in Excel.
Questions 🔗
The radix parameter in the DECIMAL function denotes the base of the number system used in the input text representation. It is crucial for accurately interpreting the numerical value embedded in the text and converting it to the decimal system.
Can the DECIMAL function handle conversions from hexadecimal numbers?Yes, the DECIMAL function can handle conversions from hexadecimal numbers, as well as numbers in any base between 2 and 36. By specifying the appropriate radix value corresponding to the hexadecimal base (16), you can seamlessly convert hexadecimal representations to decimal.
In what scenarios would one typically use the DECIMAL function in Excel?The DECIMAL function is commonly employed when working with numbers represented in various bases, such as binary, octal, or hexadecimal, and necessitates converting them to decimal for arithmetic operations or data analysis in Excel.
Related functions 🔗
BIN2DEC
BIN2HEX
BIN2OCT
DEC2BIN
DEC2HEX
DEC2OCT
HEX2BIN
HEX2DEC
HEX2OCT
OCT2BIN
OCT2DEC
OCT2HEX