Python abs()

In this tutorial, we will learn about the Python abs() function with the help of examples.

The abs() function returns the absolute value of the given number. If the number is a complex number, abs() returns its magnitude.

1. Example

number = -20

absolute_number = abs(number)
print(absolute_number)

# Output: 20

2. abs() Syntax

The syntax of abs() method is:

abs(num)

3. abs() Parameters

abs() method takes a single argument:

• num – a number whose absolute value is to be returned. The number can be:
  • integer
  • floating number
  • complex number

4. abs() Return Value

abs() method returns the absolute value of the given number.

• For integers – integer absolute value is returned
• For floating numbers – floating absolute value is returned
• For complex numbers – magnitude of the number is returned

5. Example 1: Get absolute value of a number

# random integer
integer = -20
print('Absolute value of -20 is:', abs(integer))

#random floating number
floating = -30.33
print('Absolute value of -30.33 is:', abs(floating))

Output

Absolute value of -20 is: 20
Absolute value of -30.33 is: 30.33

6. Example 2: Get magnitude of a complex number

# random complex number
complex = (3 - 4j)
print('Magnitude of 3 - 4j is:', abs(complex))

Output

Magnitude of 3 - 4j is: 5.0