Final answer:
To find the dimensions of the scale model with original dimensions of 5 miles by 8 miles and a scale factor of 4 inches per mile, multiply the original dimensions by the scale factor. The scale model will be 20 inches wide by 32 inches long. The correct answer is option a. 20 in wide, 32 in long.
Step-by-step explanation:
The student is given the original dimensions of an area as 5 miles wide and 8 miles long, and a scale factor of 4 inches per mile is used to determine the dimensions of the scale model.
To calculate the dimensions of the scale model, you'll need to multiply each original dimension by the scale factor:
- Width in the scale model = 5 miles × 4 inches/mile = 20 inches
- Length in the scale model= 8 miles × 4 inches/mile = 32 inches
Thus, the correct answer for the dimensions of the scale model is 20 inches wide by 32 inches long, which corresponds to option (a).