a) Hawaii's elevation (1 ft) is greater than both the sea level and California's elevation so it is located near the top. Sea level (0 ft) is less than Hawaii's elevation (1 ft) but more than California's elevation (-120 ft). California's elevation is negative, meaning it is below sea level.
b) California's elevation < sea level < Hawaii's elevation
-120 ft < 0 ft < 1 ft