Question

A scale model of a train is 1:30. If the wheel diameter is 2cm, what is the actual size of the wheel? The wheel is ______ cm on diameter

Answer 1

60 centimeters

Explanation:

The scale is 1:30. The wheel diameter is 2 while the actual size of the wheel is unknown. Therefore, the scale for the wheel is 2:x

Let’s set up a proportion.

1/30=2/x

First, cross multiply. Multiply the numerator of the first fraction by the denominator of the second. Then, multiply the numerator of the second by the denominator of the first.

1*x= 2*30

1x=20*30

x=20*30

x=60

Add appropriate units, in this case centimeters (cm).

x= 60 cm

The actual diameter of the wheel is 60 centimeters.

Answer 2

60 cm

Explanation:

You need to use ratios to solve. If the scale is 1:30 then the wheel is 2:(?). Cross-multiply the fractions and solve for x.

1/30 = 2/x

1x = 30*2

x = 60

The wheel is 60 cm in diameter.