The Taieri Plain in New Zealand is 6 feet below sea level (or –6 feet). If you are standing 3 feet above sea level, is your elevation the opposite of the elevation of the plain? Describe the steps you would follow with a vertical number line to find the answer.
No, your elevation is not the opposite of the elevation of the Taieri Plain.
To find the answer using a vertical number line, follow these steps:
1. Draw a vertical number line with a scale going from negative to positive, representing elevation.
2. Mark a point on the number line representing the Taieri Plain at -6 feet.
3. Mark another point on the number line representing your elevation at 3 feet.
4. Compare the two points: The point representing the Taieri Plain is below the point representing your elevation.
5. Since you are above sea level and the Taieri Plain is below sea level, your elevation is not the opposite of the elevation of the plain.