Scales & Maps - Map Scale
Map scale shows the relationship between a distance on a map and the actual distance in real life. It is usually written as a ratio (e.g., 1:50,000) or a statement, helping us convert and calculate real-world distances accurately from a map.
Related Lessons:
Map Scale
In this video, we will explore the relationship between a digital map and its scale, seeing how zooming in or out changes the scale and the level of detail shown. We will also learn how to read a map scale and convert between the map scale and actual distances.
Map Scale Example 1
A map has a scale of 1: 10 000. What is the length on the on the ground represented by 2.5cm on the map in metres?
Map Scale Example 2
On a map, 3cm represents 6.9km on actual ground
- Express the scale of the map in the form 1:n
- Calculate the actual distance, in km, represented by 5cm on the map.
Map Scale Example 3
Given that a map has a scale of 3cm to 6km.
- Find the R.F. of the map
- Find the actual distance, in km, on a road which measures 9.6cm on the map
- At the end of the road there is a garden which has a fenced perimeter of 7.5cm on a second map with scale 1:500,000. Find the perimeter of the garden on the first map.