Friday, August 9, 2013

Write an Absolute Value on a Graphing Calculator

The absolute value of an integer is difference between the number and zero. For instance, both 8 and minus- 8 have absolute values of 8 because they are both eight spaces away from zero, albeit in opposite directions. In algebra, you may be required to solve equations with absolute values by graphing, or you might need to quickly calculate the absolute value of a numerical expression, such as -5(3)^31. When you are allowed to use a graphing calculator, it is important to understand how to write absolute value on it.

Instructions:

Finding the Absolute Value of a Number or Numerical Expression
1. Press the "ON" button in the lower left-hand corner of the calculator. Then, press the "MATH" button toward the upper left.

2. Use the right arrow to scroll sideways to the "NUM" selection. Then, either press "ENTER" in the lower right-hand corner of the keypad or the number 1 to select the absolute value function.

3. Type in the numerical expression. Then, insert a left-facing parenthesis, located in the middle of the keyboard, to close the absolute value. Hit "ENTER" to get the answer.
  
 Graphing an Absolute Value
1. Press the "ON" button in the lower left-hand corner of the calculator. Then, press the "Y=" in the upper left.

2. Select the "MATH" button and then scroll to the right using the directional arrow to select "NUM."

3. Press "ENTER" or 1. Type in the algebraic equation, such as X - 3. Use the variable button "X,T..." for any variables.

4. Close the equation with a left-facing parenthesis. Then, hit "GRAPH" in the upper right to display the graph of the equation.


Tips & Warnings
- Insert the absolute value before the number or expression that goes in it, not after.
- Type any coefficients or parts of the equation outside of the absolute value before you insert it. For instance, with 3abs(2X - 4), you type the 3, then perform the steps above.

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