Math Problem Statement

How do you find the x intercept of absolute value

Solution

To find the xx-intercept of an absolute value function, you follow these steps:

1. Set the Function Equal to Zero:

The xx-intercept is where the function crosses the xx-axis, meaning the output (or yy-value) is zero. For an absolute value function y=f(x)y = |f(x)|, set the function equal to zero: f(x)=0|f(x)| = 0

2. Solve the Equation Inside the Absolute Value:

The absolute value of a number is zero only when the number itself is zero. So, solve the equation inside the absolute value for xx: f(x)=0f(x) = 0

3. Determine the xx-Intercept:

Solve the equation f(x)=0f(x) = 0 to find the value(s) of xx. The solution(s) will be the xx-intercept(s) of the absolute value function.

Example:

Let's consider the function y=2x4y = |2x - 4|.

  1. Set the function equal to zero: 2x4=0|2x - 4| = 0

  2. Solve the equation inside the absolute value: 2x4=02x - 4 = 0

  3. Solve for xx: 2x=42x = 4 x=2x = 2

The xx-intercept is at x=2x = 2. So, the xx-intercept is the point (2,0)(2, 0).

Would you like more details on this process or have any further questions?

Here are 5 related questions you might consider:

  1. How do you graph an absolute value function and identify its vertex?
  2. What happens to the graph of an absolute value function when you change its coefficients?
  3. How do you find the vertex of an absolute value function?
  4. Can an absolute value function have more than one xx-intercept?
  5. How do you solve absolute value inequalities?

Tip: When solving absolute value equations, always consider checking for extraneous solutions, especially if the equation involves squaring both sides.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Algebra
Absolute Value Functions

Formulas

|f(x)| = 0
f(x) = 0

Theorems

Properties of Absolute Value

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 8-10