Understanding Scale Factor

Grade 7 Math | Lesson ID: 07M0501001

30 minutesIntermediate
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Introduction to Scale Factor

A scale factor is a number that scales, or multiplies, a quantity. In geometry, scale factors are used to create similar figures that maintain the same shape but differ in size.

The scale factor tells us how many times larger or smaller the scale drawing is compared to the actual object. It's the ratio of drawing size to actual size.

In this lesson, you'll learn how to identify and use scale factors to compare drawings and actual measurements.