SOLUTION: I've solved {{{ sqrt( z^2+8z+16 ) }}} but I need help getting a better understanding about why/when you put absolute value signs. Can you please help? Thanks!

Question 552673: I've solved but I need help getting a better understanding about why/when you put absolute value signs. Can you please help? Thanks!
Answer by Earlsdon(6294) (Show Source): You can put this solution on YOUR website!
Recall that the square root of a quantity always gives two answers, a positive answer and a negative answer.
If you want to indicate that only yhe positive answer applies, then you would us the absolute value sign.
Example, to indicate that only the positive answer applies:

In your problem:
=
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