SAT Math : How to find absolute value

Study concepts, example questions & explanations for SAT Math

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Example Questions

Example Question #21 : Absolute Value

If \(\displaystyle f(x)=\left | x^{3}-36 \right |\), what is the value of \(\displaystyle f(-4)\)?

Possible Answers:

\(\displaystyle 100\)

\(\displaystyle 28\)

\(\displaystyle -100\)

\(\displaystyle -28\)

Correct answer:

\(\displaystyle 100\)

Explanation:

Substitute – 4 in for x. Remember that when a negative number is raised to the third power, it is negative. -  = – 64. – 64 – 36 = – 100. Since you are asked to take the absolute value of – 100 the final value of f(-4) = 100. The absolute value of any number is positive. 

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