Absolute Values

Objective

In this lesson, you will learn about absolute value for real numbers.

Previously Covered:

What is absolute value?

The absolute value of a number is its distance from zero on a number line.

The notation for “the absolute value of a,” where a is some real number, is . The bars tell you to find the absolute value of the number inside.

How does absolute value fit in?

Absolute value shows the distance a number is from zero on a number line.

Question

Which of the following numbers is closest to zero?

1. 
2. 0.25
3. – 0.3
   
4. 

Reveal Answer

The correct answer is A. Find the absolute value of each number. The choice with the smallest absolute value will be closest to zero. Choice A has the smallest absolute value, 0.2. Choices B and D have the same absolute value, 0.25.

How do I represent an absolute value on a number line?

To represent a number on the number line, plot all points with the absolute value of the given number.

Question

Which number line represents the graph of  ?

1. 
2. 
3. 
4. 

Reveal Answer

The correct answer is D. The absolute value of –3 is 3. The number line must show a point at 3.

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