Algebra U4L14 - Absolute Value Word Problems

Front

What is the definition of 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 express a situation where a value varies by a certain amount from a target value using absolute value?

Back

You can express this as |x - target| = variation, where 'x' is the actual value, 'target' is the desired value, and 'variation' is the amount of allowable deviation.

Front

If the target weight of a lobster is 4 pounds and the allowable error is 1.5 pounds, what absolute value equation represents this?

Back

The equation is |w - 4| = 1.5.

Front

What does the equation |x - 750| = 250 represent in a real-world context?

Back

It represents a situation where the actual price of skis can vary by $250 from the average price of $750.

Front

How do you find the minimum and maximum values from an absolute value equation?

Back

To find the minimum and maximum values, solve the equation |x - a| = b to get x = a + b and x = a - b.

Front

What is the significance of the 'target' in an absolute value word problem?

Back

The 'target' is the value that the actual measurement or quantity is compared to, determining the acceptable range of variation.

Front

In the context of the lobster weight problem, what does v(w) = 1.5 signify?

Back

It signifies that the absolute weight error allowed for the lobster is 1.5 pounds.

Front

Write the absolute value equation for a ribbon that needs to be 3/4 yard long with a variation of 1/16 yard.

Back

Front

What is the formula to find the actual volume of a sports drink bottle that must be within 0.03 ounces of 20 ounces?

Back

The formula is |v - 20| = 0.03.

Front

If a lobster's weight must be within 1.5 pounds of 4 pounds, what are the possible weights?

Back

The possible weights are between 2.5 pounds and 5.5 pounds.