Answer:
48.2
Explanation:
To solve this you can set up a number line.
1. Draw the number line and make sure it includes the numbers -5.4 (because Jacob is BELOW sea level), 0, and 42.8 (because Jessica is ABOVE sea level it will be positive)
2. On your number line make a shape or figure you are comfortable with above the -5.4 and 42.8 because this represents where they are in comparison to each other.
3. To figure out the distance between them both you can start at Jacobs spot and count the "notches" that indicate a new number on the number line all the way up to where Jessica is.
Equation Method
1. Set up the equation 42.8 + |-5.4| = x
In this case x is the total distance between Jessica and Jacob. You would use absolute value bars around -5.4 because you want to find his distance in relation to 0. You would add them, because you are trying to find the total distance between both of them.
2. Start to solve: 42.8 + 5.4 = x
If you are confused by absolute value bars I would reccomend watching a Khan Academy video explaining the topic.
3. 48.2 = x
Just add the numbers together. This will be your final answer.