This graph represents the basic absolute value function compressed vertically. Notice that the factor in front of the absolute value symbol is a value less than 1.

The anchor points (-1,1) (0,0) (1,1)
become (-2,1) (0,0) (2,1).
The x component of each coordinate increases by a factor of 2, causing the graph to get wider.

Click on "original function" above to compare this graph to the basic absolute value graph.

A number greater than 1 in front of the absolute value symbol will result in a vertical stretch. Unsure of vertical stretch and compression? Read about graphing using transformations.