Final answer:
The product −4(−12) determines that the runner has covered 48 units of distance in the number relay, which most closely answers the question about the 'distance covered by the runner'. It is not indicative of speed, time taken, or starting position.
Step-by-step explanation:
The product −4(−12) specifies the location of a runner in a number relay. This mathematical operation is a multiplication of two negative numbers, which results in a positive product. When comparing the options provided, the most relevant to the product −4(−12) is thedistance covered by the runner. Therefore, the question that this product answers is "What is the distance covered by the runner?" and it specifies a location that is 48 units from the starting point, assuming one unit corresponds to one meter or another consistent measure of distance.
Option (a) What is the speed of the runner? and option (b) What is the time it takes for the runner to finish the race? are not directly answered by this product. Option (d) What is the runner's starting position? is also not pertinent, as multiplication typically represents a change in position, not an initial condition.
Given that the context is a number relay with each negative sign perhaps indicative of a direction change or a lap, the positive outcome of 48 would imply that the runner has covered that ground as distance traveled. It would not typically represent the runner's speed, time, or starting position directly.