7th Grade · The Number System
Distance
7.NS.A.1c
Definition
The distance between two integers is the absolute value of their difference: |B - A| = |A - B|. Distance is always positive.
Examples
- Distance from -3 to 5 = |5 - (-3)| = |8| = 8 units.
- Distance from -7 to 2 = |2 - (-7)| = |9| = 9 units.
Key rule
Distance is always positive — use absolute value to guarantee it.
Memory hook
Distance = |difference|; the sign doesn't matter.