Understanding Map Scale

Understanding Map Scale

Read each question carefully and answer to the best of your ability. Use the provided map scales to calculate distances.

1. A map scale tells us the relationship between a distance on a map and the actual   on the ground.

2. If a map scale states 1 cm = 10 km, then 5 cm on the map would represent   km in real life.

3. The three main types of map scales are graphic, verbal, and  .

1. Which type of map scale uses a line with marked divisions to show distances?

2. A map has a scale of 1:100,000. If two cities are 3 cm apart on the map, what is the actual distance between them?

1. Explain the difference between a large-scale map and a small-scale map.

2. A map has a verbal scale that says '1 inch equals 5 miles'. If you measure 4 inches between two towns on the map, how far apart are they in real life?

1. A map with a scale of 1:1,000,000 shows more detail than a map with a scale of 1:10,000.

2. A graphic scale changes if the map is enlarged or reduced.