Final answer:
To calculate the distance between 550 feet above sea level and 440 feet below sea level, add the absolute values of each elevation, resulting in a total distance of 990 feet.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question asks for the distance formula to calculate the distance between an elevation of 550 feet above sea level and 440 feet below sea level. To find this distance, you simply need to add the absolute values of the two elevations because one is above sea level and the other is below. You do not need to account for any horizontal distance since the question implies a vertical difference.
Here's the calculation:
- Elevation above sea level: +550 feet
- Elevation below sea level: -440 feet (we take the absolute value, which is 440 feet)
The total distance between the two points is therefore 550 feet + 440 feet = 990 feet.