To figure out real distances using map scales, you need to know about three kinds of scales usually found on maps: linear scales, fractional scales, and verbal scales.

1. Linear Scale

A linear scale is a straight line that shows how far things are in real life.

For example, if the scale says that 1 cm on the map equals 1 km in real life, you can use a ruler to measure the distance between two points on the map.

• Example: If you measure 5 cm between two points on the map:
  • The actual distance would be 5 cm × 1 km/cm = 5 km.

2. Fractional Scale

A fractional scale tells you the relationship between map distance and actual distance. This is often shown as a fraction or ratio.

For example, if you see a scale of 1:50,000, it means that 1 unit on the map represents 50,000 of the same units in real life (which means 1 cm on the map equals 50,000 cm, or 500 m).

• Example: If you measure 4 cm on the map:
  • The actual distance would be 4 cm × 50,000 = 200,000 cm = 2 km.

3. Verbal Scale

A verbal scale uses words to explain the distance, like saying "1 inch equals 1 mile." This is a simple way to understand how the map distances relate to real distances.

• Example: If the scale says "1 inch = 1 mile" and you measure 3 inches on the map:
  • The actual distance would be 3 inches × 1 mile/inch = 3 miles.

Summary

If you know how to read these different types of scales, it’s easy to figure out real distances. Remember to:

• Change measurements to the same unit if needed.
• Use the right math based on the type of scale to find the actual distances accurately.