Evaluate the expressions inside the absolute value symbols

Oct 13, 2025 by wbrum.org 36 views

Understanding Absolute Value

Absolute value is a mathematical concept that represents the distance of a number from zero on the number line. It is denoted by two vertical lines, such as |x|, where x is the number inside the absolute value symbols. The absolute value of a number is always non-negative, regardless of whether the number itself is positive or negative.

Evaluating the Expression

The given expression is ${$ |3| - |-7|$}$. To evaluate this expression, we need to follow the order of operations (PEMDAS):

Evaluate the expressions inside the absolute value symbols:
- |3| = 3 (since 3 is a positive number)
- |-7| = 7 (since -7 is a negative number, and the absolute value makes it positive)
Subtract the two values:
- 3 - 7 = -4

Therefore, the final answer to the expression ${$ |3| - |-7|$}$ is -4.

Why is the Answer -4?

The answer -4 might seem counterintuitive at first, since we are subtracting a positive number (7) from a positive number (3). However, the key to understanding this expression is to recognize that the absolute value of -7 is 7, not -7. This means that we are essentially subtracting 7 from 3, which results in -4.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When evaluating absolute value expressions, it's essential to remember that the absolute value of a number is always non-negative. This means that if you have a negative number inside the absolute value symbols, the absolute value will make it positive. For example:

| -5 | = 5 (not -5)
| 10 | = 10 (not -10)

Real-World Applications

Absolute value expressions have numerous real-world applications, such as:

Distance and displacement: In physics, absolute value is used to calculate distance and displacement. For example, if an object moves 5 meters to the left and then 3 meters to the right, its total displacement would be |5 - 3| = 2 meters.
Finance: In finance, absolute value is used to calculate the difference between two values. For example, if a stock's value increases by $10 and then decreases by $5, its net change would be |10 - 5| = $5.

Conclusion

Evaluating absolute value expressions requires a clear understanding of the concept of absolute value and the order of operations. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can confidently evaluate absolute value expressions and apply them to real-world problems.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the absolute value of a negative number?

A: The absolute value of a negative number is always positive. For example, |-5| = 5.

Q: How do I evaluate an absolute value expression with two negative numbers?

A: To evaluate an absolute value expression with two negative numbers, follow the order of operations:

Evaluate the expressions inside the absolute value symbols.
Subtract the two values.

For example, | -3 - (-7) | = | -3 + 7 | = | 4 | = 4.

Q: Can I use absolute value to represent a negative number?

A: No, absolute value is used to represent the distance of a number from zero, which is always non-negative. To represent a negative number, use the negative sign, such as -5.

Q: How do I apply absolute value to real-world problems?

A: Absolute value can be applied to various real-world problems, such as distance and displacement, finance, and more. To apply absolute value, identify the problem and use the concept of absolute value to solve it.

Additional Resources

For more information on absolute value and its applications, check out the following resources:

Khan Academy: Absolute Value
Mathway: Absolute Value
Wolfram Alpha: Absolute Value

Q: What is the absolute value of a number?

A: The absolute value of a number is its distance from zero on the number line. It is denoted by two vertical lines, such as |x|, where x is the number inside the absolute value symbols. The absolute value of a number is always non-negative, regardless of whether the number itself is positive or negative.

Q: How do I evaluate an absolute value expression?

A: To evaluate an absolute value expression, follow the order of operations (PEMDAS):

Evaluate the expressions inside the absolute value symbols.
Subtract the two values.

For example, |3 - 7| = | -4 | = 4.

Q: What is the difference between absolute value and negative numbers?

A: Absolute value is used to represent the distance of a number from zero, which is always non-negative. Negative numbers, on the other hand, represent a value that is less than zero. For example, |-5| = 5, but -5 is a negative number.

Q: Can I use absolute value to represent a negative number?

A: No, absolute value is used to represent the distance of a number from zero, which is always non-negative. To represent a negative number, use the negative sign, such as -5.

Q: How do I apply absolute value to real-world problems?

Q: What is the absolute value of a fraction?

A: The absolute value of a fraction is the absolute value of its numerator divided by the absolute value of its denominator. For example, |3/4| = |3| / |4| = 3/4.

Q: Can I use absolute value to represent a decimal number?

A: Yes, absolute value can be used to represent a decimal number. For example, |3.5| = 3.5.

Q: How do I evaluate an absolute value expression with a variable?

A: To evaluate an absolute value expression with a variable, follow the order of operations (PEMDAS):

Evaluate the expressions inside the absolute value symbols.
Substitute the variable with its value.
Simplify the expression.

For example, |2x - 3| = |2x| - |3| = 2x - 3.

Q: Can I use absolute value to represent a negative exponent?

A: No, absolute value is not used to represent a negative exponent. Negative exponents are represented using the negative sign, such as 2^(-3).

Q: How do I apply absolute value to trigonometric functions?

A: Absolute value can be applied to trigonometric functions, such as sine and cosine. For example, |sin(x)| = |cos(x)|.

Q: Can I use absolute value to represent a complex number?

A: Yes, absolute value can be used to represent a complex number. For example, |a + bi| = √(a^2 + b^2), where a and b are real numbers.

Q: How do I evaluate an absolute value expression with a radical?

A: To evaluate an absolute value expression with a radical, follow the order of operations (PEMDAS):

Evaluate the expressions inside the absolute value symbols.
Simplify the radical.
Simplify the expression.

For example, |√(16)| = |4| = 4.

Q: Can I use absolute value to represent a negative radical?

A: No, absolute value is not used to represent a negative radical. Negative radicals are represented using the negative sign, such as -√(16).

Conclusion

Absolute value is a fundamental concept in mathematics that has numerous applications in real-world problems. By understanding the concept of absolute value and how to evaluate absolute value expressions, you can confidently apply it to various problems and situations.

Additional Resources

For more information on absolute value and its applications, check out the following resources:

Khan Academy: Absolute Value
Mathway: Absolute Value
Wolfram Alpha: Absolute Value

By following the steps outlined in this article and practicing with real-world examples, you can become proficient in evaluating absolute value expressions and applying them to various problems.