Question

A scientist uses a submarine to study ocean life.

She begins at sea level, which is an elevation of 0 feet.
She travels down 37.4 feet.
She then ascends 19.8 feet.
Next, she descends a second time, 8.4 feet.

How many feet must she now rise to get back to sea level?

Answer 1

To get back to sea level, the scientist must now rise a total of 19.2 feet. This is calculated by subtracting the total amount of feet she has descended (37.4 + 8.4 = 45.8 feet) from the total amount of feet she has traveled (37.4 + 19.8 + 8.4 = 65.6 feet). Therefore, 19.2 feet (65.6 - 45.8) must be ascended in order to reach sea level.