#  >> K-12 >> K-12 Basics

How to Simplify Absolute Value Equations

"Absolute value" is a mathematical term that refers to the value of a real number that does not factor in the positive or negative value that is attached to the number. In other words, the absolute value of both +5 and -5 is 5. Absolute value is represented in an equation as follows: |-6|. The answer to this is, of course, 6. An absolute value equation often requires you to solve for x, such as the equation |4 -- 6| = x. To solve this equation, you must first simplify it.

Instructions

    • 1

      Determine which parts of the equation need to be simplified. Using the example in the introduction, the part of the equation that needs to be simplified is "4 - 6" because this is the part that is enclosed in the absolute value sign.

    • 2

      Solve the problem that is within the absolute value sign. For the example above, you would subtract 6 from 4 to get -2 as your answer.

    • 3

      Enclose your answer within the absolute value sign and rewrite the equation to simplify it: |-2| = x.

    • 4

      Solve the equation. The last part of simplifying the equation is solving it, or determining the absolute value. Remember, the absolute value of a number does not factor in the positive or negative value. Therefore, |-2| simplifies to just 2. This means that 2 = x is the solution to the equation.

K-12 Basics
K-12 Basics
Related articles
EduJourney © www.0685.com All Rights Reserved