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 between the dimensions of a model or drawing and the actual object.

Front

How do you calculate the actual distance using a scale?

Back

To find the actual distance, multiply the distance on the map by the scale factor. For example, if the scale is 2 inches = 40 miles, then 1 inch = 20 miles.

Front

If a map shows a distance of 4.125 inches and the scale is 2 inches = 40 miles, what is the actual distance?

Back

82.5 miles.

Front

What is the formula to find the height of a scale drawing?

Back

Height in scale drawing = Actual height / Scale factor.

Front

If Jamie's building is 300 ft tall and the scale is 1 inch : 10 ft, how tall is the building in the drawing?

Back

30 inches.

Front

What is the area of a square garden with a side length of 25 feet, using a scale of 2 inches = 5 feet?

Back

100 in².

Front

How do you find the area of a scale drawing?

Back

To find the area, first convert the dimensions using the scale, then use the area formula (length x width) for the scaled dimensions.

Front

If the distance from Denver to Chicago is 3 inches on a map with a scale of 1 inch = 300 miles, what is the actual distance?

Back

900 miles.

Front

What is the width of a tent in a drawing if the actual width is 6 feet and the scale is 1 inch : 3 feet?

Back

2 inches.

Front

What does it mean if a scale is 1 inch : 10 feet?

Back

It means that 1 inch on the drawing represents 10 feet in reality.