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.
The calc() Function
The calc() function performs a calculation to be used as the property value.
CSS Syntax
calc(expression)
| Value | Description |
|---|---|
| expression | Required. A mathematical expression. The result will be used as the value. The following operators can be used: + - * / |
Let us look at an example:
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
max(value1, value2, ...)
| Value | Description |
|---|---|
| value1, value2, ... | Required. A list of comma-separated values - where the largest value is chosen |
Let us look at an example:
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
min(value1, value2, ...)
| Value | Description |
|---|---|
| value1, value2, ... | Required. A list of comma-separated values - where the smallest value is chosen |
Let us look at an example:
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); }
All CSS Math Functions
| Function | Description |
|---|---|
| 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 |