CST Level 1 Land Surveyor Certification Practice

What is the name usually given to a map scale expressed as a ratio such as 1:24,000?

1. An engineer's scale

2. A graphical scale

3. A representative fraction or scale ratio

4. A manuscript fraction

The correct answer is: A representative fraction or scale ratio

A map scale expressed as a ratio, such as 1:24,000, is referred to as a representative fraction or scale ratio. This format indicates that one unit of measurement on the map (e.g., an inch or centimeter) corresponds to a specific number of the same units on the ground, in this case, 24,000 of those units. This means that 1 unit on the map is equal to 24,000 of the same units in reality, providing a clear and standardized way to understand scale in mapping. This type of scale is particularly useful because it remains accurate regardless of the measurement units being applied, whether inches, centimeters, or any other unit. It provides clarity for interpreting distances on the map with respect to real-world distances. The other options have different meanings. An engineer's scale is typically a special scale used in engineering drawings, marked in units for specific applications. A graphical scale is a visual representation of scale, often depicted as a marked line showing distances. A manuscript fraction might refer to a fractional representation found in handwritten documents, but it does not specifically represent a map scale in the context of cartography.