MySQL ABS() Function

The ABS() function in MySQL calculates the absolute value of a number. The absolute value of a number is its distance from zero, always resulting in a non-negative value.

ABS(): Definition and Usage

ABS() is a simple but useful mathematical function. It's frequently used to remove the sign (positive or negative) from a number, ensuring that you are working with only the magnitude of the value. This is commonly needed in calculations or comparisons where the sign is not relevant.

Syntax

ABS(number)
      

Parameter Values

Example

Calculating the Absolute Value

This example shows how to use the ABS() function to get the absolute value of -243.5.

SELECT ABS(-243.5);
      

243.5