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Java Program to Absolute difference as long with Explanation

Java Easy Data Types 26 views
This problem helps you practice core Java fundamentals in a practical way. It builds intuition around absolute, difference, long. Let’s break it down step by step so you can implement it confidently.
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Problem Statement

Task: return absolute difference between two ints as a long (avoid overflow).

Input Format

Two integers a and b.

Output Format

A long value: absolute difference between a and b.

Constraints

• a and b are valid integers

• Must avoid integer overflow

Concept Explanation

If we subtract directly using int, overflow can happen.
So we first convert both numbers to long, then subtract,
and finally take absolute value.

Step-by-Step Logic

1.Read integers a and b.

2.Convert both to long:

• long x = a

• long y = b

3.Compute diff = x - y.

4.If diff < 0, make it positive (-diff).

5.Return diff.

Code Solution

This explanation is written for learning purposes and to help beginners understand the concept clearly.
static long absDiff(int a,int b){long x=a;long y=b;long d=x-y;return d<0?-d:d;}

Output Example

Input:
2147483647 - (-2147483648)
Output:
4294967295

Common Mistakes

- Misreading input/output format.
- Not handling constraints and edge cases.
- Off-by-one errors in loops.
- Forgetting to reset variables between test cases (if any).

Notes & Extra Practice

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