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 object.

Front

If a map has a scale of 1 inch = 20 miles, how do you find the actual distance for a measurement on the map?

Back

Multiply the measurement in inches by the scale factor (20 miles). For example, 5.5 inches x 20 miles/inch = 110 miles.

Front

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

Back

Actual Distance = Measurement on Map x Scale Factor.

Front

How do you convert a scale drawing measurement to actual size?

Back

Use the scale factor to multiply the measurement from the drawing to find the actual size.

Front

What is the perimeter of a shape?

Back

The perimeter is the total distance around the outside of a shape.

Front

If a scale drawing uses 1 cm = 5 feet, how do you find the perimeter of the actual object?

Back

Measure the perimeter in cm on the drawing and multiply by 5 feet/cm.

Front

What is the area of a rectangle?

Back

Area = Length x Width.

Front

How do you find the area of a model using a scale?

Back

First, convert the dimensions from the model to actual size using the scale, then calculate the area using the formula: Area = Length x Width.

Front

What does it mean if a scale is 1 inch = 2 feet?

Back

It means that every 1 inch on the drawing represents 2 feet in actual size.

Front

How do you set up a proportion to find an unknown length using a scale?

Back

Set up the proportion as: (Scale Length)/(Actual Length) = (Drawing Length)/(x), where x is the unknown actual length.