[Supa]

How to solve absolute value equations.

step one: Treat the equation as the absolute value is positive. Then solve for x
step two: Multiply everything in the absolute value sign by -1. Distribute the negative sign. Then solve for x.

Follow those two steps and you should have no problem.

Got a B+ n Calc 2 so I know how to work math ;)

Every post has given you an answer by simply plugging in the "values" from each answer and seeing if it makes sense. However sometimes you won't be given multiple choice. So that is how you solve for x with absolute value signs.

Here is an example:

|4x-(.5)| + 15 = 7

Positive route:

4x - (1/2) + 15 = 7
4x = -15/2 (combine like terms)
x = -15/8 (divide both sides by 4)

Negative route:

-(4x - (1/2)) + 15 = 7
-4x + (1/2) + 15 = 7 (distribute the -1)
-4x = -17/2 (combine like terms)
x = 17/8 (divide by -4)

x = {-15/8, 17/8}