On a map, the area of a nature reserve is 54.2 in.². The scale of a map is 1 inch:8 miles. Find the actual area of the nature reserve.

Question

Scale factor problems. I’m not sure how to do these types of problems and I have been told that you are the best way to go! So if you could help me that would be amazing! Thanks so much. Have a great day!

Answer 1

1 inches converts to 8 miles

1 in^2 converts to 64 square miles

54.2 in^2 means 54.2(64) = about 3,469 square miles

or another way to solve the problem is:

54.2 is a square area with sides = square root of 54.2 = about 7.362 inches

7.362 inches is equivalent to 7.362 x 8 = 58.90 miles

58.90^2 = about 3469 square miles