Math Problem Statement

The table below gives the dimensions of a sculpture and a scale model of the sculpture. Find the scale factor of the model. (The scale factor to get the model from the sculpture.) Write your answer as a fraction in simplest form.

Solution

To find the scale factor of the model from the sculpture, we compare the corresponding dimensions in the table. The scale factor is the ratio of any one dimension of the model to the corresponding dimension of the sculpture. The key is to simplify this ratio to its simplest fractional form.

Let's calculate the scale factor for each dimension:

  1. Length: Scale factor for length=Model LengthSculpture Length=924\text{Scale factor for length} = \frac{\text{Model Length}}{\text{Sculpture Length}} = \frac{9}{24} Simplifying 924\frac{9}{24}: 924=38\frac{9}{24} = \frac{3}{8}

  2. Width: Scale factor for width=Model WidthSculpture Width=616\text{Scale factor for width} = \frac{\text{Model Width}}{\text{Sculpture Width}} = \frac{6}{16} Simplifying 616\frac{6}{16}: 616=38\frac{6}{16} = \frac{3}{8}

  3. Height: Scale factor for height=Model HeightSculpture Height=1232\text{Scale factor for height} = \frac{\text{Model Height}}{\text{Sculpture Height}} = \frac{12}{32} Simplifying 1232\frac{12}{32}: 1232=38\frac{12}{32} = \frac{3}{8}

Conclusion:

Since all dimensions give the same ratio, the scale factor of the model is: 38\boxed{\frac{3}{8}}

Would you like more details or have any questions?

Here are 5 related questions:

  1. How would the scale factor change if the model's dimensions were doubled?
  2. What happens to the scale factor if you switch the model and the sculpture's dimensions?
  3. How can you calculate the scale factor for volumes if given?
  4. Can the scale factor ever be greater than 1, and what would that indicate?
  5. What are real-life applications of scale factors in design and architecture?

Tip: Always remember to simplify ratios for scale factors to ensure they are in their simplest form.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Ratios
Fractions
Simplifying Fractions

Formulas

Scale factor = Model Dimension / Sculpture Dimension

Theorems

Simplifying Fractions

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 5-7