document.write( "Question 141679: Why is it impossible for the absolute value of a number to be negative? \r
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Algebra.Com's Answer #103232 by nabla(475) $\"\"$ $\"About$

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By definition, the absolute value of a number is the number without regard to its sign. In other words, the absolute value is the magnitude of a number. Say, for instance, that you are playing football and are at the 50 yard line (half the distance to a touchdown). How far, if the ball stays in its current position, is it to either touchdown area? From your perspective, one area would be backward half the field. The other area would be forward half the field. Nonetheless, they are the same distance. \n" ); document.write( "

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