Lesson 3

Solving Absolute Value Equations Graphically

 

You have solved many different types of equations by graphing. In Discover you saw how you can also solve absolute value equations by graphing.

 

Generally, there are two approaches when solving by graphing. The following methods can be applied with or without technology.

 

Method 1: Intersect Method

 

Step 1: Graph the function represented by the left-hand side of the equation.

 

Step 2: Graph the function represented by the right-hand side of the equation.

 

Step 3: Determine the point(s) of intersection between the two functions to reveal the solution(s).

 

Method 2: Zero Method

 

Step 1: Graph the function represented by the side of the equation containing all of the terms.

 

Step 2: Determine the zero(s) of the function to reveal the solution(s).

---

Launch the “Absolute Value Equations” applet to see how you can use a table to solve an absolute value equation graphically. Click on the blackboard at the top of the screen to see the tutorials. Choose “Sovling: Graphically.”

---

Self-Check 1