Math

Absolute Value Calculator

Distance from zero, and |ax+b| equations.

Enter your values

Enter the value of x you are working with.

Enter the a in |ax + b| = c you are working with.

Enter the b you are working with.

Enter the c you are working with.

Results update instantly as you type — no submit needed. Your values are remembered on this device, and the shareable link reopens the calculator with exactly these numbers.

Results
|x|
7.5
Solutions of |ax + b| = c
x = 8 or x = -2
Sign of x
negative
|x| squared
56.25

Quick answer

The absolute value of a number is its distance from zero, so it is always zero or positive.

|x| = x if x ≥ 0, else −x

At a glance

What it doesDistance from zero, and |ax+b| equations.
CategoryMath
Inputs neededValue of x, a in |ax + b| = c, b, c
Main output|x|
Formula|x| = x if x ≥ 0, else −x
CostFree — no sign-up, no download

How to use the Absolute Value Calculator

  1. 1Enter a value to get its absolute value.
  2. 2Enter a, b and c to solve |ax + b| = c.
  3. 3Remember there are usually two solutions.

Inputs explained

Value of x
Enter the value of x you are working with.
a in |ax + b| = c
Enter the a in |ax + b| = c you are working with.
b
Enter the b you are working with.
c
Enter the c you are working with.

Worked example

Using the values the calculator loads with:

Inputs

  • Value of x-7.5
  • a in |ax + b| = c2
  • b-6
  • c10

Results

  • |x|7.5
  • Solutions of |ax + b| = cx = 8 or x = -2
  • Sign of xnegative
  • |x| squared56.25

Frequently asked questions

Can absolute value be negative?

No, never — the result is always zero or positive.

Why two solutions?

Both a positive and a negative inside expression can have the same distance from zero.

What do I need to enter into the Absolute Value Calculator?

Just 4 values: value of x, a in |ax + b| = c, b, c. Every field starts with a realistic example, so you can change one number at a time and watch the result update instantly.

How does the Absolute Value Calculator work out the answer?

The absolute value of a number is its distance from zero, so it is always zero or positive. It applies the formula |x| = x if x ≥ 0, else −x and shows the working so you can check each step by hand.

Is the Absolute Value Calculator free, and do I need an account?

It is completely free with no sign-up, no download and no usage limit. Everything is calculated in your browser, so the numbers you type never leave your device.

Results are estimates for general information. For medical, legal, structural or financial decisions, confirm with a qualified professional.