A scuba diver is exploring at an elevation of -12.2 meters. As the diver rises to the surface, she plans to stop and rest briefly at a reef that has
Write an equation. Let x represent the vertical distance betweer
her initial elevation and the elevation of the reef.
an elevation of _4.55 meters. Find the vertical distance that the diver
EXAMPLE 2
World
CAC BELA
will travel
STEP 1
- 12.2 +x= -4.55
STEP 2
Solve the equation using an inverse operation.
-12.2 + x= -4.55
+12.2 +12.2
7.65
Add 12.2 to both sides.
The diver will travel a vertical distance of 7.65 meters.
Reflect
4. Make a Prediction Explain how you know whether the diver is
moving in a positive or a negative direction before you solve the
equation.