(a) we are to write a signed number to represent the elevation of a valley 204 feet below sea level.
Recall, the elevation of a point in the valley is 204 feet below sea level.
That means it is a negative value
Which is -204 feet.
But belw sea level, we don't have negative value then we take the absolute value of -204,
= |-204|
= +204 feet
Therefore, the signed number = +204 feet.
(b) We were told that a corporation produced 1280 fewer cars this month than last month. we are to write the signed number to represent this change.
Let the numbrs of cars they produced last month be x
Recall, the statement says the cars produced in the present month is fewer than the one they produced the previous month, that shows its a reduction.
So, to show reduction, its a sign of negative operations
The signed number will be = x - 1240, Which could also means -1240.