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?
mi
4 in. : 2 mi

Explanation:

Step1: Determine the scale - factor

Given the scale $4$ in. : $2$ mi, convert it to a single - multiplier. First, simplify the ratio $\frac{2}{4}=\frac{1}{2}$. So the number to multiply each length on the map by to get the actual distance is $\frac{1}{2}$ mi per inch.

Step2: Find the map distance from campsite to beach

The map distance from Oscar's campsite to the beach is $2\frac{1}{2}=\frac{5}{2}$ inches.

Step3: Calculate the actual distance

Multiply the map distance by the scale - factor. The actual distance $d$ is $d=\frac{5}{2}\times\frac{1}{2}=\frac{5}{4} = 1.25$ mi.

Answer:

1. $\frac{1}{2}$
2. $1.25$ mi