Question

A diver begins at sea level and dives down 200 feet. He ascends at a steady rate of 12 and one-third feet per minute for 4.5 minutes. Which of the following numerical expressions represents the final depth of the diver?

200 + 12 and one-third(4.5)
200 – 12 and one-third(4.5)
–200 + 12 and one-third(4.5)
–200 – 12 and one-third(4.5)

how would you figure this out?

Answer 1

-200+12 and one-third(4.5)

Explanation:

Firstly, it can't be one of the first 2 answers because we go down by 200ft. Then, we know it can't be the last option because we gain 12 and 1/3 ft per minute. Therefore, it must be the third option.