Question

Explain how scale is used on a map and why it is an important tool

Answer 1

Scale on a map is important in order to give the map reader a sense of size. Maps are just about always smaller than what they really represent, and scale is a way of quantifying how much smaller they are.

First, find yourself a map. Then, using two points, find both the distance on the map and the true distance. Next, you divide the true distance by the measured map distance, and find your scale. Last, you need to place that ratio onto your map.

Answer 2

A scale is usually defined as a ratio between the distance on the map and the real distance on the ground surface. For example, a scale of 1:100000 signifies that 1 cm on the map corresponds to a distance of 1 km on the actual ground surface.

It is commonly used in the maps, given at the lower portion in the form of a line or ruler. This is a very important tool as it helps in understanding the distance between the two places. It gives the idea about how large or small a distance is.