Answer: as many miles as 3 inches is
Explanation:
To determine the actual distance between two cities when given a scale on a map, we can use the concept of ratios and proportions.
In this case, we are told that 1 inch on the map represents a certain number of miles. Let's say that 1 inch on the map represents x miles.
We can set up the following proportion:
1 inch / x miles = 3 inches / y miles
Using cross-multiplication, we have:
1 inch * y miles = 3 inches * x miles
Simplifying the equation:
y miles = 3 inches * x miles
Now, we can substitute the given value of 3 inches for the distance on the map:
y miles = 3 inches * x miles
To find the actual distance between the cities (y miles), we need to know the value of x, which represents the number of miles represented by 1 inch on the map. Without that information, we cannot calculate the actual distance between the cities.