To determine which situation results in a change that could be modeled by a positive number, we should look for a scenario where the starting point is lower than the endpoint.
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A change in elevation from –12 feet to 123 feet: This is an increase in elevation. The change is \( 123 - (-12) = 123 + 12 = 135 \) feet, which is positive.
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A change in elevation from 492 feet to -783 feet: This is a decrease in elevation. The change is \( -783 - 492 = -1275 \) feet, which is negative.
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A change in elevation from 632 feet to 312 feet: This is a decrease in elevation. The change is \( 312 - 632 = -320 \) feet, which is negative.
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A change in elevation from sea level to -87 feet: This is a decrease in elevation. The change is \( -87 - 0 = -87 \) feet, which is negative.
The only situation that results in a positive change is a change in elevation from –12 feet to 123 feet.