Scale — Science definition
A stated ratio connecting represented and actual quantities with units.
Where it is taught
- Space Models: Scale, Evidence & Revision — Earth, Moon, Sun & Space Models, Science 6: Matter, Energy & Earth Systems, Grade 6
Questions using scale
Problem 1
- One illustrative result establishes every real condition and needs no further evidence.
- A diagram that looks realistic must have correct numerical scale.
- A model with one limitation is useless for every purpose.
- scale: A stated ratio connecting represented and actual quantities with units.
Answer and explanation
scale: A stated ratio connecting represented and actual quantities with units.
A stated ratio connecting represented and actual quantities with units. The consistent values are 150 cm to the Sun, 0.384 cm or 3.84 mm to the Moon, and Earth diameter 0.0127 cm or 0.127 mm. The poster’s 2 cm Earth and 10 cm Moon separation do not follow that scale. Label its size and spacing as exaggerated for relationship viewing rather than present it as a numerical distance model.
Problem 2
- revision: A reasoned change to a model or explanation in response to evidence or an identified limit.
- A diagram that looks realistic must have correct numerical scale.
- A model with one limitation is useless for every purpose.
- One illustrative result establishes every real condition and needs no further evidence.
Answer and explanation
revision: A reasoned change to a model or explanation in response to evidence or an identified limit.
A reasoned change to a model or explanation in response to evidence or an identified limit. The consistent values are 150 cm to the Sun, 0.384 cm or 3.84 mm to the Moon, and Earth diameter 0.0127 cm or 0.127 mm. The poster’s 2 cm Earth and 10 cm Moon separation do not follow that scale. Label its size and spacing as exaggerated for relationship viewing rather than present it as a numerical distance model.
Problem 3
- A diagram that looks realistic must have correct numerical scale.
- scale: A stated ratio connecting represented and actual quantities with units.
- A model with one limitation is useless for every purpose.
- Every classroom model reproduces reality exactly.
Answer and explanation
scale: A stated ratio connecting represented and actual quantities with units.
A stated ratio connecting represented and actual quantities with units. The consistent values are 150 cm to the Sun, 0.384 cm or 3.84 mm to the Moon, and Earth diameter 0.0127 cm or 0.127 mm. The poster’s 2 cm Earth and 10 cm Moon separation do not follow that scale. Label its size and spacing as exaggerated for relationship viewing rather than present it as a numerical distance model.