To find the vertical distance between Kale and the family of dolphins, we subtract the depth of the dolphins from Kale's depth below sea level.
Kale is at -647 feet, and the dolphins are at -112 feet.
The calculation is as follows:
\[ \text{Vertical distance} = |-647 - (-112)| = |-647 + 112| = |-535| = 535 \text{ feet} \]
Therefore, the vertical distance between Kale and the family of dolphins is 535 feet.