Solving Absolute-Value Equations

Front

What is an absolute value?

Back

The absolute value of a number is its distance from zero on the number line, regardless of direction. It is denoted as |x|.

Front

How do you solve an absolute-value equation?

Back

To solve an absolute-value equation, set the expression inside the absolute value equal to both the positive and negative values of the other side of the equation.

Front

Solve the equation: |x - 5| = 3

Back

x = 8, x = 2

Front

What does it mean if an absolute-value equation has no solution?

Back

It means that there is no value of the variable that can satisfy the equation, often because the expression inside the absolute value cannot equal a negative number.

Front

Solve the equation: |3x + 1| = 4

Back

x = 1, x = - \frac{5}{3}

Front

What is the first step in solving |2x + 9| = 15?

Back

Set up two separate equations: 2x + 9 = 15 and 2x + 9 = -15.

Front

Solve the equation: |x + 4| = 10

Back

x = 6, x = -14

Front

What is the solution to |−2n| + 10 = −50?

Back

No Solution

Front

Solve the equation: 3|−8x| + 8 = 80

Back

x = -3, x = 3

Front

What is the solution to |2a + 10| = 6?

Back

a = -8, a = -2