How this calculation works
Opposite numbers have the same absolute value. The distance from x to another point c is |x−c|.
THE FORMULA
|x| = distance from 0A worked example
−7 is seven units from zero, so |−7| = 7.
Good to know
Use a real number. The result is always nonnegative.
Reference: OpenStax Prealgebra (opens in a new tab) ↗
Read the result
Find the distance of a signed number from zero on the number line.
The primary result is labeled “Absolute value”. Keep the input definitions in view when comparing this result with another method.
Try a related calculation
Use a real number. The result is always nonnegative.
For a related exercise, try the fraction calculator.
A few questions, answered
How can I check the default inputs by hand?
−7 is seven units from zero, so |−7| = 7.
Which rule does this calculator apply?
|x| = distance from 0