Question

a positive altitude gives a distance above sea level. a negative altitude gives a distance below sea level.
(a) find the absolute value of the altitude for each checkpoint.
checkpoint a: \\(\left| 24 \
ight| = \square\\)
checkpoint b: \\(\left| -33 \
ight| = \square\\)
(b) which checkpoint is closer to sea level?
\\(\circ\\) checkpoint a
\\(\circ\\) checkpoint b
\\(\circ\\) neither is closer to sea level.

Explanation:

Step1: Find absolute value of 24

The absolute value of a positive number is the number itself. So, $|24| = 24$.

Step2: Find absolute value of -33

The absolute value of a negative number is its positive counterpart. So, $|-33| = 33$.

Step3: Compare the absolute values

We have the absolute value of Checkpoint A as 24 and Checkpoint B as 33. Since 24 < 33, Checkpoint A is closer to sea level (as sea level is 0, and the smaller absolute value means closer distance).

Answer:

(a) Checkpoint A: $\boxed{24}$, Checkpoint B: $\boxed{33}$
(b) Checkpoint A