Scientific Calculator
Perform advanced calculations with trig, logs, powers, and more.
Tutorials & Guides
Scientific Calculator Guide
Advanced Functions
Unlock powerful mathematical capabilities with our scientific calculator.
- **Alt+S:** Sine function
- **Alt+C:** Cosine function
- **Alt+T:** Tangent function
- **Alt+L:** Logarithm (base 10)
- **Alt+N:** Natural logarithm
- **Alt+R:** Square root
- **Alt+P:** π constant
- Trigonometric (sin, cos, tan in degrees)
- Exponential and Logarithmic (log, ln, e^x)
- Power functions (x², x³)
- Constants (π, e)
- Factorial (x!)
- Memory (M+, MR, MC)
Real-world Applications
- Structural design with trigonometric functions
- Electrical engineering with exponential calculations
- Statistical analysis with factorial
- Physics calculations with constants
- Advanced mathematics homework
- University-level calculations
Example: Calculate sin(30) + cos(60) = 1.0
What is a Scientific Calculator? Complete Guide
A scientific calculator is an advanced calculating device that can perform mathematical operations beyond basic arithmetic. Unlike simple calculators, scientific calculators include functions for trigonometry, logarithms, exponents, factorials, and mathematical constants like π (pi) and e (Euler's number).
Our free online scientific calculator provides all the functionality of physical scientific calculators without needing to purchase one. Whether you're a student working on algebra, a professional engineer, or anyone needing advanced math capabilities, this calculator works directly in your browser with no downloads required.
Scientific Calculator Functions Explained
Trigonometric Functions
- sin(x) – Calculates the sine of angle x in degrees
- cos(x) – Calculates the cosine of angle x in degrees
- tan(x) – Calculates the tangent of angle x in degrees
Example: sin(30) = 0.5, cos(60) = 0.5
Logarithmic Functions
- log(x) – Base-10 logarithm (common log)
- ln(x) – Natural logarithm (base e)
- e^x – Exponential function
Example: log(100) = 2, ln(e) = 1
Power & Root Functions
- x² – Square of a number
- x³ – Cube of a number
- √x – Square root
Example: 5² = 25, √16 = 4
Special Functions
- x! – Factorial (x × (x-1) × ... × 1)
- |x| – Absolute value
- π, e – Mathematical constants
Example: 5! = 120, π ≈ 3.14159
Who Uses Scientific Calculators?
Students
From algebra and geometry to calculus and physics, students use scientific calculators for homework, tests, and understanding mathematical concepts.
Engineers
Mechanical, electrical, and civil engineers rely on trigonometric and logarithmic functions for design calculations, stress analysis, and signal processing.
Scientists
Researchers use scientific calculators for data analysis, statistical calculations, and complex mathematical models in physics, chemistry, and biology.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between log and ln?▼
log (common logarithm) uses base 10, while ln (natural logarithm) uses base e (approximately 2.718). Log is often used in engineering and science for orders of magnitude, while ln is common in calculus and growth/decay problems.
Are the trigonometric functions in degrees or radians?▼
Our calculator uses degrees for trigonometric functions (sin, cos, tan). This is the most common unit for everyday calculations. To convert radians to degrees, multiply by 180/π.
What is factorial (x!) used for?▼
Factorial is used in probability, combinatorics, and statistics. It calculates the number of ways to arrange items. For example, 5! = 5×4×3×2×1 = 120 represents the number of ways to arrange 5 different objects.
How do I use the memory functions?▼
M+ adds the current value to memory, MR recalls the stored value, and MC clears the memory. Use these to store intermediate results in complex calculations.
Can I use keyboard shortcuts?▼
Yes! Use Alt+S for sine, Alt+C for cosine, Alt+T for tangent, Alt+L for log, Alt+N for natural log, Alt+R for square root, and Alt+P for π. Numbers and basic operators work directly from your keyboard.
Is this calculator accurate enough for professional use?▼
Our calculator uses JavaScript's built-in Math functions which provide double-precision floating-point accuracy (about 15-17 significant digits). This is suitable for most educational and professional calculations.