Final answer:
By using the map scale of 1 inch = 40 miles, we calculate the actual distance between Columbus and Dublin, Georgia as 880 miles. To find the drive time at 55 mph, we divide the distance by the speed, equating to 16 hours of drive time, excluding traffic and stops.
Step-by-step explanation:
Calculating Actual Distance and Drive Time
To find out the actual distance from Columbus to Dublin in Georgia, using the scale on the map which is 1 inch = 40 miles, we multiply the number of inches on the map by the scale factor. Since the map shows the width of Georgia from Columbus to Dublin as 22 inches, we calculate the actual distance by multiplying 22 inches by 40 miles per inch, giving us an actual distance of 880 miles.
Next, to determine the time it would take to drive this distance at an average speed of 55 miles per hour, we divide the total miles by the average speed. This gives us a driving time of 880 miles ÷ 55 miles per hour, which equals 16 hours. This is under the assumption that the journey maintains a constant speed and does not take into account any factors such as traffic, stops, or road conditions that might affect the actual driving time.
It's important to understand how to use map scales for calculating actual distances, which is a useful skill in real-world geography exercises, such as planning trips or understanding distances between locations.