When does it make sense to compare the absolute values of numbers rather han
the numbers themselves?

Explanation:

Absolute values of numbers are numbers greater than zero. They are always positive numbers. They are convenient and easy way of making sure a value is always positive. They are majorly used in inequalities to convert negative numbers to positive numbers.

Absolute values of numbers are important than the value itself when there is only need for a positive value in calculation rather than a negative. Absolute values also negates any negative values thereby converting them to positive values.

Absolute values are useful if we always want to keep our values as positive rather than negative.