Scale Factor

Front

What is a scale factor?

Back

A scale factor is a number that scales, or multiplies, some quantity. It is used to determine the ratio of the dimensions of a model or drawing to the actual dimensions of the object.

Front

If a map has a scale of 1 inch = 40 miles, how do you find the actual distance between two points on the map?

Back

Multiply the distance on the map (in inches) by the scale factor (40 miles per inch).

Front

What is the formula to calculate the actual distance using a scale?

Back

Actual Distance = Distance on Map × Scale Factor.

Front

If a drawing of a soccer field is 14 inches long and the actual field is 98 yards long, what is the scale of the drawing?

Back

1 inch = 7 yards.

Front

How do you convert a scale from inches to feet?

Back

To convert inches to feet, divide the number of inches by 12.

Front

What does it mean if two triangles are similar?

Back

It means that their corresponding angles are equal and their sides are in proportion.

Front

If the scale of a drawing is 1 inch = 7 feet, how wide is a backyard that is 49 feet wide in the drawing?

Back

7 inches.

Front

How can you find the height of an object using a mirror?

Back

By standing at a distance where you can see the top of the object in the mirror, you can use similar triangles to calculate the height.

Front

What is the actual distance if the distance on the map is 4.125 inches and the scale is 2 inches = 40 miles?

Back

82.5 miles.

Front

What is the relationship between scale factor and similarity in geometry?

Back

The scale factor is the ratio of the lengths of corresponding sides of similar figures.