Answer: - 42.95 feet
Step-by-step explanation:
Let each ascent be x. Thus,
2 equal ascents = 2x
From the information given,
initial position = - 64.5 feet
Final position after 2 ascents = - 21.4 feet
This means that
- 64.5 + 2x = - 21.4
2x = - 21.4 + 64.5
2x = 43.1
x = 43.1/2
x = 21.55
Thus, Max's elevation after the first ascent is
- 64.5 + 21.55
= - 42.95 feet