Question

what number can you multiply each length on the map by to find the actual distance?
1/2
what is the actual distance from oscars campsite to the beach?
empty box mi

Explanation:

Step1: Identify scale - factor concept

The number we multiply map - length by to get actual distance is the scale factor. But we assume a scale where 1 unit on map represents 2 units in real life (since no scale is given and the first option is $\frac{1}{2}$, we assume the reciprocal relationship for the multiplier). So the multiplier is 2.

Step2: Calculate actual distance

The distance from Oscar's campsite to the beach on the map is $2\frac{1}{2}$ inches. To find the actual distance, we multiply the map - distance by the multiplier. First, convert $2\frac{1}{2}$ to an improper fraction: $2\frac{1}{2}=\frac{2\times2 + 1}{2}=\frac{5}{2}$ inches. Then multiply by 2: $\frac{5}{2}\times2 = 5$ miles.

Answer:

The number to multiply each length on the map by is 2.
The actual distance from Oscar's campsite to the beach is 5 mi.