Absolute Value on a Number Line
The absolute value of a number is its distance from zero on the number line, regardless of direction. It is always non-negative.
What You Need to Know
Key Concept Diagram
The absolute value of a number is written as |n|, e.g. |−5| = 5
Distance from zero is always positive: |+3| = |−3| = 3
Absolute value is used to find the distance between two numbers on a number line
|n| = n if n >= 0; |n| = −n if n < 0
Key Vocabulary
Absolute value
The distance of a number from zero on the number line, always non-negative
Integer
A whole number — positive, negative, or zero
Distance
A measure of how far apart two points are, always non-negative
Opposite
Two numbers the same distance from zero but on opposite sides, e.g. 4 and −4
Knowledge Check
Select the correct answer for each question. Click "Check Answer" to see if you are right.
Question 1
What is |−8|?
Question 2
Which has the greater absolute value: −12 or +9?
Question 3
What is |7| + |−3|?
Key Concepts Summary
- ●The absolute value of a number is written as |n|, e.g. |−5| = 5
- ●Distance from zero is always positive: |+3| = |−3| = 3
- ●Absolute value is used to find the distance between two numbers on a number line
- ●|n| = n if n >= 0; |n| = −n if n < 0