Describe where absolute value applies to the real world?

This could be used in bookkeeping and banking.  It all depends how you view the numbers.  Absolute value is removing any negative values from numbers. So really you just have to think of the numbers in positive value form.  So for example if you were working with only accounts payable, those numbers are technically negative numbers, but you would treat them as positives.  This creates the absolute value.  Like I had $30 owed, then I purchased another $100 on credit.  That means I owe $130.  The numbers are negative, but the wording makes them positive and thus presents the entire purpose behind absolute value. 

Does this help?