Overview
The absolute value of a number is its distance from zero regardless of direction. For example, |−7| = 7 and |7| = 7. It is used in distances, differences between values, and many algebraic rules.
Formula
|x| = x if x ≥ 0, and |x| = −x if x < 0.
How it works
Enter the number
It can be whole, decimal or negative.
Check the sign
Remove the sign if the number is negative; keep it if positive.
Read the result
The absolute value, distance from zero and additive inverse are shown.
Worked examples
Example 1: |−7|
|−7| = 7, because −7 is 7 units from zero.
Example 2: |3.5|
|3.5| = 3.5, because the number is already positive.
Frequently asked questions
Can an absolute value be negative?
No. Absolute value is never negative because it represents a distance.
What is the additive inverse?
It is the number with the opposite sign; its sum with the original number is zero.
Is absolute value the same as an exponent?
No. Absolute value removes the sign, while an exponent multiplies the number by itself.
This calculator is for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice.