Introduction to the atan function and its use
The atan function in CSS is part of the mathematical functions used for calculations. This function is used to compute
the arctangent, which is one of the trigonometric functions and is widely used in many design scenarios and web
implementations. One of the unique applications of this function is in creating animations that require precise geometric
calculations and angle transformations.
While the use of arctangent in CSS is generally not common, when paired with JavaScript and other mathematical functions, it can be beneficial. Particularly in responsive designs or situations where you need to animate elements using transformations and transitions smoothly.
Since direct use of atan in CSS is not usual, it mostly needs to be executed in other programming languages
like JavaScript instead; however, it can be used to determine angles and create captivating animations.
Here we have several examples of using arctangent in JavaScript code that can be applied as the basis for geometric calculations in CSS.
Several examples of using arctangent in JavaScript
<script>
// Calculate the angle from coordinates
function calculateAngle(x, y) {
const angle = Math.atan2(y, x) * (180 / Math.PI);
return angle;
}
// Use in dynamic animations
const x = 150;
const y = 75;
const angle = calculateAngle(x, y);
console.log('Calculated angle:', angle);
</script>
Line-by-line explanations
// Calculate the angle from coordinatesThis function
calculateAngle is used to calculate the angle between two axes X and Y.function calculateAngle(x, y) {It defines a function that takes two parameters
x and y as inputs.const angle = Math.atan2(y, x) * (180 / Math.PI);This calculates the arctangent and converts it from radians to degrees.
return angle;The calculated angle is then returned.
// Use in dynamic animationsAn example of how to use the calculated angle in animations or transformations.
const x = 150;Defines the value of
x for the point.const y = 75;Defines the value of
y for the point.const angle = calculateAngle(x, y);Calls the function and obtains the calculated angle.
console.log('Calculated angle:', angle);Outputs the calculated angle in the console.