Interpret absolute value as distance and use it to compare quantities and errors.
Use absolute value in context
Problem
Which temperature is farther from \(0^{\circ}\text{C}\), \(-8^{\circ}\text{C}\) or \(5^{\circ}\text{C}\)? How much farther is it?
Big Picture
What this problem is really about
Measure each temperature’s separate distance from zero using absolute value; ordinary signed order is not what the question asks. Compare those distances to identify which original temperature is farther, then subtract the smaller distance from the larger to find how much farther. Do not use the full span between the two temperatures.
Inside Gozunta
Turn the preview into practice.
More than a preview
Gozunta lets you study this problem—and more than 10,000 others.
Create targeted learning sessions, use hints, check your answer, read the walkthrough, watch the video, print the work, and track your progress.
