Easy Algebra Step-by-Step

16 Easy Algebra Step-by-Step

b.^04

Step 1. Recalling that the absolute value of a real number is its distance

from 0 on the number line, determine the absolute value.

|0.4| = 0.4 because 0.4 is 0.4 units from 0 on the number line.

c. − 2

1

3

Step 1. Recalling that the absolute

value of a real number is its

distance from 0 on the num-

ber line, determine the abso-

lute value.

− 2 =

1

3

2

1

3

because − 2

1

3

is 2

1

3

units from 0 on the number line.

Problem Which number has the greater absolute value?

a. − 35 , 60

b. 35 ,− 60

c. −^2

9

7

9

,

d.^2

9

7

9

, −

Solution

a. − 35 , 60

Step 1. Determine the absolute values.

− 35 = 35 , 60 = 60

Step 2. Compare the absolute values.

60 has the greater absolute value because 60 > 35.

b.^35 , −^60

Step 1. Determine the absolute values.

35 =− 3535 , 60 = 60

As you likely noticed, the absolute value of a

number is the value of the number with no sign

attached. This strategy works for a number whose

value you know, but do not use it when you don’t

know the value of the number.