HYPOT Function (Gnumeric)
Find the hypotenuse with Gnumeric HYPOT using a 3-4-5 triangle example. Includes syntax, the result and practical tips.
Reference checked: Examples have not been run in this spreadsheet application. How we verify guides
The HYPOT function in Gnumeric is used for this task: The hypotenuse calculation reduces error compared with manual squaring in some numerical situations.
This guide explains how to read the formula, reproduce a concrete example, interpret its result and recognize common input mistakes.
Syntax and arguments
HYPOT(x,y)
Gnumeric formulas normally use commas (,) between arguments. These examples are written for Gnumeric rather than copied unchanged from LibreOffice Calc.
Worked example
=HYPOT(3,4)
Expected result: 5.
Why it works: Calculates the hypotenuse of a right triangle with legs three and four.
Another practical example
Practice inputs: No worksheet cells are required.
=HYPOT(5,12)
Expected result: 13.
By the Pythagorean theorem, sqrt(5²+12²)=13. This is handy for distances and perpendicular components.
What to watch for
Use consistent units for all input lengths.
For LibreOffice Calc formulas, separators are commonly semicolons; the Gnumeric examples here use commas. The arithmetic or official reference supplies the expected result, but Gnumeric has not been executed for this review.
How to use it in your own spreadsheet
- Identify the cells or inputs that correspond to the sample values above.
- Enter the formula in an empty cell, changing the references or literal values to match your sheet.
- Compare the output with a manual check on a small known example.
- Extend the formula to a larger dataset only after you understand the result.
Common problems and practical checks
- Check the accepted numeric domain, units and array dimensions for the specific operation.
- If an error appears, check that the function arguments are of the expected type.
- A pasted formula may produce an error when it uses the other program’s argument separator or unsupported options.
Related functions
Documentation and verification
- Gnumeric official function reference
- Gnumeric function catalog
- Formula and intended behavior were checked against the Gnumeric official function reference; Gnumeric itself was not run in this environment.