Scientific Calculator
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Order of Operations and Function Evaluation
This calculator parses expressions using standard algebraic order of operations (PEMDAS/BODMAS): parentheses first, then exponents and functions (sin, cos, tan, log, ln, square roots, factorials), then multiplication and division, then addition and subtraction. Type an expression directly, or build one with the keypad — implicit multiplication like 2(3+4) and 2pi is supported, and unmatched opening parentheses are closed automatically when you press equals.
Degrees vs. Radians
Trigonometric functions depend on which angle unit you're using, so this calculator lets you pick explicitly rather than guessing. In degree mode, a full circle is 360° and sin(90) returns 1. In radian mode, a full circle is 2π and the same identity is written sin(pi/2). Inverse trig results (sin⁻¹, cos⁻¹, tan⁻¹) are likewise returned in whichever unit is selected. Mixing them up is one of the most common sources of "wrong" trig answers.
Logs, Roots, and Exponents
The log key computes the base-10 (common) logarithm and ln computes the natural logarithm (base e ≈ 2.71828); both are undefined for non-positive inputs. The x^y key raises the current value to any power, and √ takes a square root using JavaScript's own Math.sqrt. For quick mental-math checks on exponent and root rules before relying on this tool, see the exponent calculator and the root calculator, or use the log calculator for logarithms with an arbitrary base.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this calculator use degrees or radians for trig functions?
You choose. Use the Angle Mode dropdown to switch between Degrees and Radians before entering a trig expression. This affects both the forward functions (sin, cos, tan) and their inverses (sin, cos, tan inverse) - in Degrees mode sin(90) = 1, while in Radians mode you'd write sin(pi/2) to get the same result.
What order of operations does the calculator follow, and can I use parentheses?
It follows standard algebraic order of operations (PEMDAS/BODMAS): parentheses and functions first, then exponents, then multiplication/division, then addition/subtraction. Parentheses are fully supported for grouping, implicit multiplication like 2(3+4) or 2pi is recognized automatically, and any unclosed opening parenthesis is auto-closed when you press equals.