To find the distance between the state park and the closest state beach on the map, we can use the given scale.

The scale provided is:
2 inches = 9.8 miles

Now, we need to determine how many inches on the map represent the 4.9 miles between the park and the beach.

Step 1: Set up the proportion

Let $x$ represent the distance on the map in inches. We can set up the proportion:

$\frac{2 \text{ inches}}{9.8 \text{ miles}} = \frac{x \text{ inches}}{4.9 \text{ miles}}$

Step 2: Solve for $x$

Now, cross-multiply to solve for $x$:

$2 \times 4.9 = 9.8 \times x$ $9.8 = 9.8x$ $x = \frac{9.8}{9.8} = 1 \text{ inch}$

Conclusion:

The distance between the state park and the closest state beach on the map is 1 inch.

Would you like further details or have any other questions?

Here are some related questions for further learning:

1. How would the distance change if the scale was different (e.g., 1 inch = 5 miles)?
2. What is the significance of using a scale when reading maps?
3. How can you estimate real distances from a map with an unusual scale?
4. How can scales be adjusted for different types of maps (e.g., topographic vs. road maps)?
5. What other kinds of measurements or conversions might be useful when navigating a map?

Tip: Always double-check the scale and units on your map to make sure you're using the correct conversion factor for accurate measurements!