In response to the reader poll about altitude/elevation, several people have indicated that they are ignorant/apathetic about the subject. They were looking for a don't know/don't care choice. If you are a non-pilot/non-air traveler, you really don't need to know your altitude/elevation most of the time. If global warming raises sea level 10 feet/3 meters, it could become important to coastal dwellers. If you are a mountaineer/hillbilly, and the weatherman/meteorologist says snow above 3000 feet/900 meters, your altitude/elevation could be important.
There really is a difference between altitude and elevation. Altitude is the distance above/below sea level. Elevation is the heighth of the land above/below sea level. Generally, flyers use altitude and land travelers use elevation, but it's OK to use them interchangeablely, unless you are some kind of a stickler/fanatic.
This elevation relevation is probably not important to you unless you have an altitude attitude. But coming from someone who has an altimeter on the dashboard of his truck, I'd have to say it is mildly important to some of us. If you don't know your altitude/elevation, call the nearest airport, or get a topographical map of your area.
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