surface example

3D Absolute Value Pyramid Graph

A four-sided pyramid made from absolute values.

z = abs(x) + abs(y)

Quick facts

  • Formula: z = abs(x) + abs(y)
  • Category: surface
  • Tags: surface, calculus, z=f(x,y)

What this graph represents

The sharp edges come from the corners in the absolute value function.

Where it appears in calculus

Useful for comparing smooth and non-smooth minima.

How to use this graph

  1. Rotate the surface by dragging with your mouse or finger
  2. Use the Embed button to copy an <iframe> for your LMS or lesson page
  3. Click PNG to export a classroom-ready image
  4. Click Formula or LaTeX to copy the equation for your notes

Embed this graph

Use the Embed button in the calculator to copy a ready iframe for blogs, LMS pages, and lesson notes.

Open embed page

Teacher prompt

Question: Why are there sharp creases?

Answer: Absolute value changes slope suddenly at 0, creating creases.

Related graphs

Explore more surface examples and compare shapes, slices, and contour behavior.

Cubic Surface

z = x^3 - y

A cubic sheet tilted by the y term.

Log Bowl

z = log(1 + x^2 + y^2)

A bowl that rises slowly as it moves outward.

Square Root Dome

z = sqrt(max(0, 16 - x^2 - y^2))

The upper half of a sphere-like dome.

Hyperbolic Valley

z = x*y

A saddle-like surface formed by multiplying x and y.

Cosine Hills

z = cos(x) + cos(y)

A regular field of smooth hills and basins.

Egg Crate Surface

z = sin(x) * sin(y)

A repeating grid of peaks and pits.

Explore more tools

Use these free browser tools to extend your graphing workflow.

3D Surface Plotter

Plot z=f(x,y), rotate, and export

Embed Builder

Create ready-to-use iframe embeds

Worksheet Export

Export graph images for classroom worksheets

How to Graph z=f(x,y)

Step-by-step guide for beginners