map uses a scale of 1 inch =10 miles. How far is a 3-inch distance on the map in real life?
The correct answer and explanation is:
To find the real-life distance corresponding to a 3-inch measurement on the map, we need to apply the scale given.
The scale states that 1 inch on the map equals 10 miles in real life. Therefore, for a 3-inch distance on the map: Real-life distance=3 inches×10 miles per inch=30 miles\text{Real-life distance} = 3 \, \text{inches} \times 10 \, \text{miles per inch} = 30 \, \text{miles}
Thus, the real-life distance corresponding to a 3-inch measurement on the map is 30 miles.
Explanation:
A map scale is a proportional relationship that helps you translate distances on the map to real-world distances. The scale allows you to understand how much the distances on the map are “compressed” compared to the actual distances they represent.
In this case, the scale uses the ratio 1 inch = 10 miles, which means for every inch you measure on the map, that corresponds to a 10-mile distance in reality. To determine the real-life distance for any other measurement on the map, you simply multiply the number of inches by 10 (the number of miles that each inch represents).
For example, if the distance on the map was 5 inches instead of 3, you would multiply 5 inches by 10 miles, resulting in 50 miles in real life. Similarly, for smaller distances, like 2 inches, it would be 20 miles in real life.
Map scales can vary depending on the type of map and the level of detail required. Some maps might use scales like 1 inch = 50 miles or 1 inch = 100 kilometers, depending on the geographical area and the amount of space on the map. When using a scale, it’s important to check the scale provided to ensure you interpret the map measurements correctly.