The CSC function in Google Sheets is a specialized mathematical function used to compute the cosecant of a given angle measured in radians. Cosecant is a trigonometric function that is defined as the reciprocal of the sine function. It is useful in various mathematical and engineering applications, including wave functions and oscillations.

Syntax

CSC(angle)  

• angle: The angle in radians for which the cosecant is to be calculated.

Example #1

CSC(0.5236)  

This function call calculates the cosecant of 0.5236 radians (approximately 30 degrees). The result is about 2.0 since csc(30°) is 2.

Example #2

CSC(1.0472)  

Here, the function is evaluating the cosecant of 1.0472 radians (approximately 60 degrees). The outcome is around 1.1547 because csc(60°) equals 1.1547.

Example #3

CSC(1.5708)  

This function returns the cosecant of 1.5708 radians (approximately 90 degrees). The result is undefined (or error), as csc(90°) is 1 and it is not defined at this point due to divisions in sine leading to zero.

Error handling

• DIV/0!: This error occurs if the sine of the specified angle is zero, leading to a division error—common at angles such as 0, π, and 2π.
• NUM!: This indicates an invalid numerical input, which could happen if the angle parameter is not a number.
• VALUE!: This error shows that the provided input cannot be interpreted as a numeric value, such as if a text string is mistakenly entered.

Conclusion

The CSC function in Google Sheets provides a straightforward way to compute the cosecant of any angle expressed in radians. Understanding its usage, syntax, and potential errors can enhance mathematical calculation efficiency in various applications.