# Using Trig functions

This is a fairly simple notation problem. I am trying to compute ArcTan of the point (5,2). I have the code:

ArcTan[5,2]


which outputs:

ArcTan[2/5]


Do I have to clarify that I would like my output in terms of radians or Pi? Technically the output is correct, but not very useful.

Ideally I would found that the Arctan[5,2]=Arctan(2/5)=.3805. Which I guess would be found by using N[function]. Any ideas on how to get where it is Pi*x such that x in Reals?

I have used the page: https://reference.wolfram.com/language/ref/ArcTan.html. For help

• Are you looking for N? – Szabolcs Oct 20 '15 at 21:35
• N as in the numerical version? For that I just do N[function] – Jack Armstrong Oct 20 '15 at 21:37
• Could you write down your expected result? – Dr. belisarius Oct 20 '15 at 21:51
• Sure, give me a moment – Jack Armstrong Oct 20 '15 at 21:52
• If you want a numerical result you can use ArcTan[5,2.]. Note the period following the 2. This will output it in radians. If you want degrees use ArcTan[5,2.]/Degree. – Jack LaVigne Oct 20 '15 at 22:01

If you want a numerical result you can use

ArcTan[5, 2.]

(* 0.380506 *)


Note the period following the 2. This will output it in radians.

If you want degrees use

ArcTan[5, 2.]/Degree

(* 21.8014 *)