Maps with decimal distances

key notes :

1. Introduction to Maps and Distance

• A map is a visual representation of an area, showing its geographical features, such as roads, cities, rivers, and mountains.
• Distance on a map can be measured in various units, such as kilometers or miles.

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2. Understanding Decimal Distances

• Decimal distances are used to express distances more accurately on maps.
• These distances are written in decimal format, like 5.2 km or 2.75 miles, to show a more precise measurement compared to whole numbers.

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3. Reading Decimal Distances on a Map

• Maps use a scale to represent distances. For example, 1 cm on a map might represent 1 km in real life.
• To read decimal distances, measure the distance between two points on the map using a ruler or measuring tape. Then, convert the measurement according to the map’s scale.

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4. Using a Map Scale

• A map scale shows the ratio of the distance on the map to the actual distance in real life. For example, if the scale is 1:100,000, it means 1 cm on the map represents 100,000 cm (or 1 km) in real life.
• To convert a map distance into real distance, multiply the measured length by the scale factor.

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5. Converting Between Units

• You may need to convert the distance on the map into different units. For example:
  • 1 kilometer (km) = 1,000 meters (m)
  • 1 mile = 1.609 kilometers
  • You might also need to convert decimals into a more usable form, like converting 1.5 km into 1 km 500 meters.

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6. Examples of Decimal Distances

• Example 1: If the distance between two cities on a map is measured as 6.5 cm, and the scale is 1 cm = 10 km, the real distance is 65 km.
• Example 2: If the map scale is 1:50,000 and the distance between two points on the map is 2.2 cm, then the real-life distance is 110 km.

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7. Practical Application of Decimal Distances

• Decimal distances allow for more accurate planning and measurements, especially when dealing with larger areas like countries or continents.
• They are especially useful in urban planning, navigation, and scientific mapping.

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8. Important Tips

• Always check the map scale before using it for distance calculations.
• Pay attention to decimal places when measuring distance, as it can affect the accuracy of your results.
• Use tools like digital maps or map apps, which often automatically calculate decimal distances for you.

Learn with an example