# How to graph $|y|=f(x)$?

This is the image of $|y|=F(x)$ , here the dotted part was the part of the original F(x) is the part that was cut off.

$$y = \begin{cases} F(x), & \text{if F(x) \ge 0} \\ -F(x), & \text{if F(x) < 0} \end{cases}$$

if we use this then I afraid we get the wrong graph :?

Our graph in that case would like this :

I am sorry if it is a silly doubt (Maybe am making a silly mistake :/) !

The graphs in the pictures are correct.

You have to interpret $|y|=f(x)$ and $y=|f(x)|$ as relations between real numbers. These relations can be graphed in the plane. They are different relations, as the pictures show.

When $f(x)<0$, there are no points $(x,y)$ such that $|y|=f(x)$.

When $f(x)\ge 0$, there are two points $(x,y)$ such that $|y|=f(x)$. They are $(x,\pm f(x))$.

• when $F(x)<0$ it will become $y = -F(x)$ in that case , $(x,-y)$ would exist – brainst Apr 1 '16 at 11:50
• Is it ... $F(x) = |y|$ therefore as the RHS is always positive the LHS should also be always positive ..... then I'm definitely wrong :( – brainst Apr 1 '16 at 11:52