What is ValueError: math domain error and how to fix it

Python will raise a ValueError when an operation or function receives an argument that has the right type but an inappropriate value.

When using the math module, you get a "ValueError: math domain error" when you are making use of a math function with an argument value that is outside the valid domain for that function.

To put it in simple words, mathematics has some rules, if you do not follow then if you do not follow then it's considered to be an invalid question.

Examples: ValueError: math domain error

1. Trying to get the square root of a negative number

import math

print(math.sqrt(-1))

Output:

Traceback (most recent call last):
  File "/Users/c2ctechtv/Desktop/example.py", line 3, in <module>
    print(math.sqrt(-1))
          ^^^^^^^^^^^^^

ValueError: math domain error

2. Trying to get the log of negative numbers

import math

print(math.log(-10))

Output:

Traceback (most recent call last):
  File "/Users/c2ctechtv/Desktop/example.py", line 3, in &yl;module>
    print(math.log(-10))
          ^^^^^^^^^^^^^

ValueError: math domain error

3. Trying to get arc sine of a value greater than 1

import math

print(math.asin(1.5))

Output:

Traceback (most recent call last):
  File "/Users/c2ctechtv/Desktop/example.py", line 3, in &yl;module>
    print(math.asin(2.1)))
          ^^^^^^^^^^^^^

ValueError: math domain error

4. Trying to get hyperbolic cosine of a large positive number

import math

print(math.cosh(5100))

Output:

Traceback (most recent call last):
  File "/Users/c2ctechtv/Desktop/example.py", line 3, in &yl;module>
    print(math.cosh(5100)))
          ^^^^^^^^^^^^^

ValueError: math domain error

References:

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Rakesh (He/Him) has over 14+ years of experience in Web and Application development. He is the author of insightful How-To articles for Code2care.

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