Absolute value

Math

Definition

The distance of a number from zero on the number line, always expressed as a non-negative value. The absolute value of x is written |x| and equals x if x ≥ 0 or −x if x < 0.

Examples

  • |−7| = 7 and |7| = 7, since both are 7 units from zero
  • Finding the distance between two points on a number line: the distance between −3 and 5 is |−3 − 5| = 8
Key Fact

|x| = x if x ≥ 0, |x| = −x if x < 0

Related Terms

Absolute value equations Integer operations Real number properties Solving inequalities

Study This Concept

Practice absolute value with free review games in these units:

Pre-Algebra Unit 1: Whole Numbers and Integers