Altitudes refer to the height of an object or point in relation to sea level or ground level. It is commonly measured in units such as meters or feet. For example, the altitude of a mountain peak is the vertical distance from sea level to the summit. Understanding altitude is important in various fields, including aviation, meteorology, and geography. In aviation, altitude affects aircraft performance and safety. Pilots must be aware of their altitude to navigate effectively and avoid obstacles. Additionally, altitude influences weather patterns, as temperatures generally decrease with increasing height in the atmosphere. This relationship is crucial for understanding phenomena like cloud formation and weather systems.