Why Do Solutions Sometimes Differ from Absolute Values?

In summary, an absolute value equation is an equation that contains an absolute value expression, which represents the distance of a number from zero on a number line. To solve such an equation, the absolute value expression must be isolated and the property of absolute value must be applied. This equation can have more than one solution due to the possibility of both positive and negative values satisfying the equation. To graph an absolute value equation, points can be plotted and connected with a line, or transformation rules can be used. Real-life applications of absolute value equations include modeling distance, time, temperature, profit, and solving inequalities.
  • #1
LindseyM2011
4
0
In equations dealing with absolute value sometimes the answer to the equation does not coorospond with the absolute value. Why is this?
 
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  • #2
simply put i believe when you have an the absolute value is how far the number is away from zero on the number line. So if you had the absolute value of -4, it would be four.

try this for further understanding, including the real mathmatical definition

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Absolute_value
 

Related to Why Do Solutions Sometimes Differ from Absolute Values?

1. What is the definition of an absolute value equation?

An absolute value equation is an equation that contains an absolute value expression, which is a mathematical notation that represents the distance of a number from zero on a number line.

2. How do you solve an absolute value equation?

To solve an absolute value equation, you need to isolate the absolute value expression and then apply the property of absolute value, which states that the absolute value of a number is equal to the number itself if the number is positive, and the negative of the number if the number is negative.

3. Can an absolute value equation have more than one solution?

Yes, an absolute value equation can have more than one solution. This is because the absolute value expression can result in two different values when evaluated, one positive and one negative, which can both satisfy the equation.

4. How do you graph an absolute value equation?

To graph an absolute value equation, you can plot points by substituting different values for the variable and then connecting the points with a line. Alternatively, you can use the transformation rules for absolute value functions to graph the equation.

5. What are some real-life applications of absolute value equations?

Absolute value equations are commonly used in physics, engineering, and economics to model real-world situations such as distance, time, temperature, and profit. They can also be used to solve problems involving inequalities, such as determining the range of values that satisfy certain conditions.

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