1. What is the Scale Factor?

The scale factor (k) is the ratio of the new size to the original size. It describes how much an object has been enlarged or reduced in a scaling transformation.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the scale factor equation:

Where:

• \( k \) — Scale factor (unitless)
• new size — Dimension after scaling (same units as old size)
• old size — Original dimension before scaling

Explanation: The scale factor compares the relative sizes of two similar figures or objects.

3. Importance of Scale Factor

Details: Scale factor is crucial in geometry, architecture, engineering, and map reading. It helps maintain proportions when resizing objects or converting between different measurement scales.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter both new and old sizes in the same units. Values must be positive numbers. The result is a unitless ratio.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What does a scale factor of 1 mean?
A: A scale factor of 1 means the object remains the same size (no scaling).

Q2: What does a scale factor greater than 1 indicate?
A: A scale factor > 1 indicates enlargement or upscaling.

Q3: What does a scale factor between 0 and 1 indicate?
A: A scale factor between 0 and 1 indicates reduction or downscaling.

Q4: Can scale factor be negative?
A: While mathematically possible, negative scale factors are rarely used as they would create mirror images.

Q5: How is scale factor used in real life?
A: Used in blueprints, model building, map scaling, image resizing, and 3D modeling to maintain accurate proportions.