Table of contents

0. Review of Algebra4h 16m
1. Equations & Inequalities3h 18m
2. Graphs of Equations43m
3. Functions2h 17m
4. Polynomial Functions1h 44m
5. Rational Functions1h 23m
6. Exponential & Logarithmic Functions2h 28m
7. Systems of Equations & Matrices4h 6m
8. Conic Sections2h 23m
9. Sequences, Series, & Induction1h 19m
10. Combinatorics & Probability1h 45m

0. Review of Algebra

Exponents

College Algebra

0. Review of Algebra

Exponents

0:55 minutes

Problem 9b

Textbook Question

Evaluate each expression. |-4|

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Absolute Value

The absolute value of a number is its distance from zero on the number line, regardless of direction. It is denoted by two vertical bars surrounding the number, such as |x|. For example, |4| equals 4, and |-4| also equals 4, as both numbers are 4 units away from zero.

Properties of Absolute Value

Absolute value has specific properties that are essential for calculations. One key property is that |a| = a if a is non-negative, and |a| = -a if a is negative. This means that the absolute value function always returns a non-negative result, which is crucial for evaluating expressions involving absolute values.

Evaluating Expressions

Evaluating an expression involves substituting values into the expression and simplifying it to find a numerical result. In the case of |-4|, you apply the definition of absolute value to determine the output. Understanding how to evaluate expressions is fundamental in algebra, as it forms the basis for solving equations and inequalities.