Dax Function: RADIANS

Category: Mathematical and Trigonometric Functions

The RADIANS function in Power BI is a DAX function used to convert angles measured in degrees into radians. Radians are a unit of angular measurement commonly used in trigonometry and other mathematical calculations.

Purpose:

The RADIANS function facilitates calculations that require angle measurements in radians, especially when working with trigonometric functions like SIN, COS, and TAN.

Type of Calculations:

  • Converts degrees into radians for trigonometric computations.
  • Ensures compatibility with mathematical and scientific formulas that require radians.

Practical Use Cases:

  1. Trigonometric Calculations: Use radians for sine, cosine, or tangent functions.
  2. Geometry Applications: Calculate angles and distances in coordinate geometry.
  3. Scientific Models: Work with formulas requiring radians in physics, astronomy, and engineering contexts.
RADIANS(<angle_in_degrees>)
ParameterTypeDescription
angle_in_degreesScalarThe angle in degrees to be converted into radians.

How Does RADIANS Dax Function Works?

The function uses the following mathematical formula to perform the conversion:

  • Degrees to Radians Conversion: The function multiplies the input angle in degrees by , where π is the mathematical constant approximately equal to 3.14159.


What Does It Return?

The RADIANS function returns a scalar value representing the equivalent angle in radians.

Example:

 RADIANS( 180 ) = π radians ( approximately 3.14159 )

When Should We Use It?

  • Trigonometric Functions: Essential for using SIN, COS, TAN, etc., since these functions operate on radians in Power BI.
  • Mathematical Modeling: Convert angles in degrees to radians for precise mathematical and engineering computations.
  • Coordinate Transformations: Useful in geospatial calculations and vector mathematics.

Examples

Basic Usage

Convert a simple angle from degrees to radians:

RadiansResult = RADIANS(90)

Output: π/2 radians1.5708.

Column Usage

Apply the function to a column of angles:

RadiansColumn = RADIANS('AnglesTable'[AngleInDegrees])

Each angle in the AngleInDegrees column is converted to radians.

Advanced Usage

Combine with trigonometric functions to calculate sine of an angle given in degrees:

SineValue = SIN(RADIANS(45))

Result: sin( 45) = sin( π/4) 0.7071 

Tips and Tricks

  • Always Check Input Units: Ensure the input is in degrees before applying the RADIANS function.
  • Combine with Trigonometric Functions: Use alongside SIN, COS, and TAN for complex mathematical modeling.
  • Avoid Redundant Conversions: Do not use RADIANS if the input is already in radians.

Performance Impact of RADIANS DAX Function:

  • The RADIANS function is highly efficient for scalar and column operations.
  • For large datasets, ensure the input data is pre-validated to avoid unnecessary computational overhead.

Related Functions You Might Need

  • DEGREES: Converts radians back into degrees.
  • SIN, COS, TAN: Trigonometric functions that work with radians.
  • PI: Returns the value of π for calculations.

Want to Learn More?
For more information, check out the official Microsoft documentation for RADIANS. You can also experiment with this function in your Power BI reports to explore its capabilities.

If you’re looking to unlock the full potential of Power BI and take your data insights to the next level, our expert Power BI consulting services are here to help. Whether you need assistance with implementing advanced DAX functions like the ones discussed here, creating interactive dashboards, or optimizing your data models for better performance, our team of seasoned Power BI consultants is ready to provide tailored solutions for your business. Visit our Power BI Consulting page to learn more about how we can empower your organization with data-driven decisions.

1. What does the RADIANS function do in Power BI?

The RADIANS function converts an angle measured in degrees into radians, which is the standard unit for trigonometric calculations.

2. How do I convert 180 degrees into radians using this function?

You can use the formula:

RADIANS(180)
This returns π radians (approximately 3.14159).
3. Can the RADIANS function handle negative angles?

Yes, the function accepts negative angles and converts them into their equivalent negative radian value.

4. What happens if the input is already in radians?

If the input is already in radians, applying the RADIANS function is unnecessary and may produce incorrect results.

5. Can I use RADIANS with column data?

Yes, you can apply the function to a column of degree values to convert them all to radians.

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