How does applying |f(x)| affect the overall graph of f(x)?

Applying |f(x)| to the function f(x) transforms the graph in a significant way. Specifically, it takes all the y-values of f(x) and converts any negative values to their positive counterparts. This operation effectively means that any portion of the graph that lies below the x-axis will be reflected above the x-axis, creating a graph that is non-negative for all x-values.

For example, if f(x) had a y-value of -3 at a certain x-value, applying |f(x)| would change that y-value to 3. As a result, all negative portions of the graph are 'flipped' above the x-axis, while all positive portions remain unchanged. Thus, the transformation results in a graph where all y-values are non-negative, illustrating an overall reflection of the negative values across the x-axis.

This reflection is why the outcome described in the selected choice focuses on the effect on negative values, emphasizing that they are moved above the x-axis rather than eliminated or otherwise altered in a way that introduces new characteristics.