A map scale factor is a numerical representation of how much a distance on a map corresponds to the actual distance on the ground. Here's an example and explanation based on the provided reference:
According to cartography, a map scale factor is the reciprocal of the ratio used to specify scale on a map. Essentially, it's the number you multiply by a distance on the map to find the corresponding distance on the ground.
For instance, the reference states: "if the scale of a map is given as 1:50,000, the scale factor is 50,000".
Understanding Scale Factor
Let's break down the example:
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Map Scale: 1:50,000
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Interpretation: This means that one unit of measurement on the map (e.g., 1 centimeter) represents 50,000 of the same units on the ground (e.g., 50,000 centimeters or 0.5 kilometers).
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Scale Factor: 50,000
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Interpretation: The scale factor is 50,000, meaning that ground distances are 50,000 times larger than the same distance on the map.
How It Works
To calculate the actual distance on the ground, you would take the distance on the map and multiply it by the scale factor:
- Example: If two points are 2 cm apart on a map with a scale factor of 50,000, the actual ground distance is 2 cm * 50,000 = 100,000 cm (or 1 kilometer).
Table Summary
| Map Scale | Scale Factor | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| 1:50,000 | 50,000 | Ground distances are 50,000 times larger than map distances. |
| 1:25,000 | 25,000 | Ground distances are 25,000 times larger than map distances. |
| 1:100,000 | 100,000 | Ground distances are 100,000 times larger than map distances. |
Key Takeaways
- The scale factor represents the relationship between map distances and corresponding ground distances.
- A higher scale factor indicates that the map represents a smaller area in greater detail.
- A lower scale factor indicates that the map represents a larger area with less detail.
- The scale factor allows for the calculation of real-world distances from measurements on a map.
In summary, a scale factor of 50,000 is a clear example of a map scale factor, relating to a 1:50,000 scale map.
