Final answer:
The change from 12 ft to 23 ft is an increase of 11 ft, as calculated by subtracting the smaller distance from the larger one.
Step-by-step explanation:
When comparing two distances, 12 ft and 23 ft, we determine the change by calculating the difference between the two measurements. To do this, we subtract the smaller distance from the larger distance:
23 ft - 12 ft = 11 ft
The result is 11 ft, which signifies an increase in distance, not a decrease. This concept of difference is important in understanding how to compare and evaluate changes in numerical values across various scenarios, including physical distances, quantities, or other measurable attributes.