In 2000, a country's budget had a surplus of $270 billion. In 2004, the budget had a deficit of $449 billion. Find the difference between these amounts. .... My 1st instinct is to subtract the lower number from the higher one to find difference is this correct?

Question

In 2000, a country's budget had a surplus of $270 billion. In 2004, the budget had a deficit of $449 billion.  Find the difference between these amounts.  .... My 1st instinct is to subtract the lower number from the higher one to find difference is this correct?

anonymous · Answer

If it's not as complicated as I first thought it was (adjust for inflation, etc...) 
a deficit indicates a negative number so it would be 
$270-(-$449) billion

anonymous · Answer

Oh, I see now.  When put in that then it turns into addition in order to find difference.

anonymous · Answer

Would this be the same for a question involving a height above see level vs below sea level?

anonymous · Answer

yep

anonymous · Answer

thank you so much for your help

anonymous · Answer

no problem