How to get the Absolute Value in Python - the abs(x) Function Explained with Examples

In Python 3, abs() is a built-in function that computes the absolute value of any number. The absolute value of a number “means only how far a number is from 0” 1 It takes one argument x , and the argument can even be a complex number, in which case its modulus is returned.

Argument

It takes one argument x - either an integer, or decimal, or complex number, or any mathematical expression in general.

Return Value

The return value would be a positive number or zero. Even if a complex number is passed, it would return its magnitude, computed as per complex number algebra.

  • A complex number is passed - It would return its modulus i.e., magnitude, computed as per complex number algebra.
  • A mathematical expression is passed - It would return its |result| , computed as per BODMAS rule.

Code Sample

print(abs(3.4)) # prints 3.4
print(abs(-6)) # prints 6
print(abs(3 + 4j)) # prints 5.0, because |3 + 4j| = 5
print(abs(-4.6))  # prints 4.6 
print(abs(3 + 4 - 6 * 3.4)) # prints 13.4, because |3 + 4 - (6 * 3.4)| = |3 + 4 - 20.4| = |-13.4| = 13.4
print(abs(3 - 4j - 3 - 4j)) # prints 8.0, because |(3 - 3) + (- 4j - 4j)| = 8.0

:rocket: Run Code