Absolute Value - Varsity Tutors

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Absolute Value

Study Guide

Key Definition

The absolute value of a number is its distance from zero on a number line. It is always a positive number or zero. It's written as $| x |$.

Important Notes

  • $| x |$ is the absolute value of x.
  • $| 4 | = 4$
  • $| -4 | = 4$
  • $| 0 | = 0$

Mathematical Notation

$| x |$ means the absolute value of x.The symbol | | is used to denote absolute value.

Why It Works

Absolute value works because it measures distance and distance is always positive.

Remember

The absolute value of any number, including zero, is always non-negative.

Quick Reference

Absolute Value:$| x |$

Understanding Absolute Value

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Video explanation of this concept

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Beginner Explanation

The absolute value of a number is its distance from zero on a number line. For example, $| 4 | = 4$ and $| -4 | = 4$.Now showing Beginner level explanation.

Practice Problems

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1

Quick Quiz

Single Choice QuizBeginner

What is the absolute value of -5?

A$-5$B$5$C$0$D$-1$Check AnswerPlease select an answer for all 1 questions before checking your answers. 1 question remaining.2

Real-World Problem

Question ExerciseIntermediate

Temperature Scenario

If the temperature dropped 7 degrees from 0, what is the absolute value of the temperature now?Show AnswerClick to reveal the detailed solution for this question exercise.3

Thinking Challenge

Thinking ExerciseIntermediate

Think About This

If $x = -9$, what is $| x |$?

Show AnswerClick to reveal the detailed explanation for this thinking exercise.4

Challenge Quiz

Single Choice QuizAdvanced

What is the absolute value of $| -5 | + | 3 | - | -2 |$?

A$10$B$-10$C$0$D$-2$E$6$Check AnswerPlease select an answer for all 1 questions before checking your answers. 1 question remaining.

Recap

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