1. The problem asks us to compare the distance from sea level of the fish and the toad using their elevations on the number line. 2. The elevations given are: - Fish: $-2$ feet - Toad: $-7$ feet 3. To find how the fish's distance from sea level compares to the toad's, we calculate the absolute value of their elevations because distance is always positive. 4. Distance of fish from sea level: $|{-2}| = 2$ feet 5. Distance of toad from sea level: $|{-7}| = 7$ feet 6. Since $2 < 7$, the fish is closer to sea level than the toad. 7. To find how much closer, subtract the distances: $$7 - 2 = 5$$ 8. Therefore, the fish is 5 feet closer to sea level than the toad. 9. Note: Saying "The fish is -2 feet above the toad" is incorrect because the fish is actually 5 feet higher than the toad (since $-2 > -7$). Final answer: The fish is 5 feet closer to sea level than the toad.