Calculating Scale on a School Map

In summary, the conversation discussed a problem about scaling on a map of a school, where 3 inches represents 9 feet and the question asked for how many inches would represent 1 foot 6 inches. The solution involved translating the problem into an equation and solving for x, with the final answer being 0.5 inches. It was also noted that x must be smaller than 3 inches.
  • #1
Baylee1014
2
0
Not sure if this is the right category but i need help.

On a map of a school, 3 inches represents 9 feet. How many inches would represent 1 foot 6 inches?
 
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  • #2
Hello Baylee1014,

Yes, you have chosen the correct sub-forum in which to post your question. (Yes)

It is best though to show what you've tried or what your thoughts are on how to begin so our helpers know exactly where you're stuck or need help.

The problem is essentially stating:

$x$ inches is to 1.5 ft as 3 inches is to 9 ft.

Can you translate that into an equation which you can then solve for $x$?
 
  • #3
MarkFL said:
Hello Baylee1014,

Yes, you have chosen the correct sub-forum in which to post your question. (Yes)

It is best though to show what you've tried or what your thoughts are on how to begin so our helpers know exactly where you're stuck or need help.

The problem is essentially stating:

$x$ inches is to 1.5 ft as 3 inches is to 9 ft.

Can you translate that into an equation which you can then solve for $x$?

x is equal to .5 so would it would 18 inches??
 
  • #4
Yes, good work...you are right that \(\displaystyle x=\frac{1}{2}\), but $x$ is in inches, not in feet.

You should know too that $x$ must be smaller than 3 inches because 1.5 is less than 9.
 
  • #5


To calculate the scale on a school map, we can use the ratio of 3 inches to 9 feet, which can be simplified to 1 inch to 3 feet. This means that for every 1 inch on the map, it represents 3 feet in real life.

To find out how many inches would represent 1 foot 6 inches, we can set up a proportion.

1 inch represents 3 feet
x inches represents 1 foot 6 inches

We can cross multiply and solve for x:

1 inch * 1 foot 6 inches = 3 feet * x inches
1.5 inches = 3x

Dividing both sides by 3, we get x = 0.5 inches.

Therefore, 0.5 inches would represent 1 foot 6 inches on the school map.
 

FAQ: Calculating Scale on a School Map

How do you calculate the scale on a school map?

To calculate the scale on a school map, you need to determine the map's scale ratio, which is typically written in the form of a fraction. The scale ratio is the relationship between the distance on the map and the actual distance on the ground. To find the scale ratio, measure a known distance on the map, such as the length of a hallway, and then measure the same distance in real life. Divide the distance on the map by the real-life distance to determine the map's scale ratio.

Why is it important to calculate the scale on a school map?

Calculating the scale on a school map is important because it allows you to accurately interpret the distances and sizes of objects on the map. Without a scale, the map would be meaningless, and you would not be able to determine the actual distance between points or the relative sizes of objects.

What units are typically used to represent the scale on a school map?

The units used to represent the scale on a school map can vary, but they are typically either a ratio (e.g. 1:10,000) or a bar scale. The bar scale is a linear representation of distance and is often labeled in both metric and imperial units.

How do you convert between units on a school map?

To convert between units on a school map, you can use the scale ratio. For example, if the scale ratio is 1:10,000 and you need to convert from centimeters to meters, you would multiply the distance on the map by 10,000 to get the real-life distance in meters.

Are there any tools or resources available to help with calculating the scale on a school map?

Yes, there are several tools and resources available to help with calculating the scale on a school map. Many map programs or apps have a feature that allows you to measure distances and determine the scale ratio. Additionally, there are online calculators and tutorials that can assist with calculating the scale on a map.

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