
Python abs() Function: Absolute Value Examples and Usage Guide
The Python abs() function is a powerful built-in feature available in the Python standard library. This function returns the absolute value of the given number. The absolute value represents the non-negative value of a number, regardless of its sign.
The abs() function can handle:
- Integers
- Floating-point numbers
- Complex numbers (returns the magnitude)
Syntax of abs() Function
abs(value)
Parameters (value)
- value: This parameter can be an integer, float, or complex number.
Return Value
- If the input is an integer, the output will be an integer.
- If the input is a float, the output will be a float.
- If the input is a complex number, the output will be the magnitude of that complex number.
Examples of Python abs() Function
Example 1: Absolute Value of Integer and Float Numbers
The following example demonstrates how to get the absolute value of an integer and a float:
# Testing abs() for an integer and float
int_num = -25
float_num = -10.50
print(“The absolute value of an integer number is:”, abs(int_num))
print(“The absolute value of a float number is:”, abs(float_num))
Output:
The absolute value of an integer number is: 25
The absolute value of a float number is: 10.5
Example 2: Absolute Value of a Complex Number
To calculate the absolute value (magnitude) of a complex number, you can use the following example:
# Testing abs() for a complex number
complex_num = (3 + 10j)
print(“The magnitude of the complex number is:”, abs(complex_num))
Output:
The magnitude of the complex number is: 10.44030650891055
Key Points to Remember
- The abs() function is versatile and works efficiently with integers, floats, and complex numbers.
- It takes only one argument: the value whose absolute value needs to be calculated.
- The function ensures accurate results while maintaining Python’s simple syntax.