Is the Modulus Function One or Two Functions?

In summary, the modulus function, denoted as |x|, is a mathematical operation that returns the absolute value of a given number, disregarding its sign. It works by first taking the given number and disregarding its sign, then returning the distance of that number from 0 on a number line. There is no difference between modulus function 1 and modulus function 2, as they both refer to the same concept. The modulus function is used in various fields such as physics, engineering, and computer science to calculate distances, determine the magnitude of a force, and perform operations on complex numbers, respectively. It always returns a positive value as it disregards the sign of the given number and only returns its distance from 0 on a
  • #1
Aeneas
27
0
Is "The modulus function" one function or two? f(x) = |x| suggests one, but f(x)=x, x>=0, f(x)=-x, x<0, suggests two.
 
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  • #2
The modulus function is one function. It is an example of what is known as a piecewise function.
 
  • #3
It's one function. Many other functions are written like this, where one function is defined by one function on one interval and defined by another function on another interval, they're called piece-wise functions.
 
  • #4
Many thanks neutrino and bel.
 

1. What is the modulus function?

The modulus function, denoted as |x|, is a mathematical operation that returns the absolute value of a given number, disregarding its sign. In simpler terms, it is the distance of a number from 0 on a number line.

2. How does the modulus function work?

The modulus function works by first taking the given number and disregarding its sign. It then returns the distance of that number from 0 on a number line.

3. What is the difference between modulus function 1 and modulus function 2?

There is no difference between modulus function 1 and modulus function 2. They both refer to the same concept of finding the absolute value of a number.

4. How is the modulus function used in real life?

The modulus function is used in various fields such as physics, engineering, and computer science to calculate distances, determine the magnitude of a force, and perform operations on complex numbers, respectively.

5. Can the modulus function be negative?

No, the modulus function always returns a positive value. This is because it disregards the sign of the given number and only returns its distance from 0 on a number line.

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