What is meant by "absolute value"?

Absolute value refers to the distance of a number from zero on the number line, irrespective of the direction. This concept is central in mathematics as it helps to quantify how far a number is from zero, without considering whether that number is positive or negative. For example, the absolute value of both -5 and +5 is 5, since both points are 5 units away from zero.

Understanding absolute value is particularly useful in various mathematical contexts, such as solving equations involving inequalities, and when dealing with real-world problems involving distance, where direction (positive or negative) is not relevant. This definition directly captures the essence of what absolute value represents, providing a clear understanding of its implications in mathematical analysis.