Question

Describe how to solve problems for the area of a reduced or enlarged figure when the scale factor and dimensions of the original figure are given.

Answer 1

To solve problems for the area of a reduced or enlarged figure, first square the scale factor. Then use the given dimensions to find the area of the original figure. Multiply the square of the scale factor by the area of the original to get the reduced or enlarged figure.

Explanation:

To solve problems for the area of a reduced or enlarged figure, first square the scale factor. Then use the given dimensions to find the area of the original figure. Multiply the square of the scale factor by the area of the original to get the reduced or enlarged figure.

Answer 2

To find a scale factor between two similar figures, find two corresponding sides and write the ratio of the two sides. If you begin with the smaller fig, your scale fac will be less than one. If you begin with the larger fig, your scale fac will be greater than one.