Question

In a certain country, the heights and depths of a road are measured in relation to sea level. Sea level has a value of 0. The lowest point of the country lies at −9 feet. The highest point of the country lies at +108 feet. Which of the following statements best describes the lowest and the highest points?

1. The lowest point is 9 feet below sea level, and the highest point is 108 feet above sea level.
2. The lowest point is 9 feet above sea level, and the highest point is 108 feet below sea level.
3. The lowest point is 9 feet below sea level, and the highest point is 108 feet above the lowest point.
4. The lowest point is 9 feet above sea level, and the highest point is 108 feet below the lowest point.

Answer 1

1. The lowest point is 9 feet below sea level, and the highest point is 108 feet above sea level.

Explanation:

The sea level is considered to be zero levels.

Now, the level +x feet means it is at x feet higher than sea level and the level -x feet means it is at x feet lower than the sea level.

Now, the lowest point of the country lies at −9 feet. The highest point of the country lies at +108 feet.

That means, the lowest point is 9 feet below sea level, and the highest point is 108 feet above sea level. (Answer)