Final answer:
Melissa's position above sea level is +27 meters, and Brian's position below sea level is -21 meters, so the correct answer is A) Melissa: +27 meters, Brian: -21 meters.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question asks to determine the correct representation of Melissa and Brian's positions in terms of elevation above or below sea level. Since Melissa hikes to a location 27 meters above sea level, this would be represented by a positive number. Therefore, Melissa is at +27 meters. On the other hand, Brian hikes to a location that is 21 meters below sea level, which is represented by a negative number. Thus, Brian is at -21 meters. Based on this information, the correct answer is:
A) Melissa: +27 meters, Brian: -21 meters.