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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 choosen. 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 choosen. 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);
}