Absolute Value Calculator
Return the absolute value of a real number, its distance from zero.
How to use
- Enter the real number whose magnitude you need.
- Calculate to view |x| and the zero-distance check.
Capabilities and scope
For input x the tool evaluates |x| and labels the same magnitude as distance from zero.
How it works
It uses JavaScript Math.abs: negatives become positive while positive values and zero remain unchanged.
Example
Entering −42 returns 42.
Useful for
- Remove direction when measuring an error or distance
- Obtain the non-negative magnitude of a signed value
Before you use it
- Absolute value discards the original sign or direction information.
Frequently asked questions
What is the absolute value of zero?
It is 0 because zero is zero distance from the origin.