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CSS Math Functions

The CSS math functions allow mathematical expressions to be used as property values. Here, we will explain the calc(), max() and min() functions.

All CSS Math Functions​

FunctionDescription
calc()Allows you to perform calculations to determine CSS property values
max()Uses the largest value, from a comma-separated list of values, as the property value
min()Uses the smallest value, from a comma-separated list of values, as the property value

The calc() Function​

The calc() function performs a calculation to be used as the property value.

CSS Syntax​

attribute: calc(expression)

where:

  • expression: a mathematical expression. The result will be used as the value. The following operators can be used: + - * /. The expression is a required parameter for calc function.

Example: Use calc() to calculate the width of a <div> element:

#div1 {  
	position:  absolute;  
	left:  50px;  
	width:  calc(100% - 100px);  
	border:  1px solid black;  
	background-color:  yellow;  
	padding:  5px;  
}

The max() Function​

The max() function uses the largest value, from a comma-separated list of values, as the property value.

CSS Syntax​

attribute: max(value1, value2, ...)

where:

  • value1, value2, ... are a list of comma-separated values where the largest value is chosen. This is a required parameter for max function.

Example: Use max() to set the width of #div1 to whichever value is largest, 50% or 300px:

#div1 {  
	background-color:  yellow;  
	height:  100px;  
	width:  max(50%, 300px);  
}

The min() Function​

The min() function uses the smallest value, from a comma-separated list of values, as the property value.

CSS Syntax​

attribute: min(value1, value2, ...)

where:

  • value1, value2, ... are a list of comma-separated values where the smallest value is chosen. This is a required parameter for min function.

Example: Use min() to set the width of #div1 to whichever value is smallest, 50% or 300px:

#div1 {  
	background-color:  yellow;  
	height:  100px;  
	width:  min(50%, 300px);  
}

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