If given a map that has a scale factor of 5 in. equals 29 mi., how far apart on the map are two cities that are 87 miles apart in distance? I don't even know a thing –_–

Use a ratio.

5/29 = x/87

Cross multiply.

29x = 436

Solve for x.

x = 15 inches

No worries! I'll explain how to solve this problem step by step so you can understand it.

1. Understand the given information:
- The scale factor of the map is 5 in. equals 29 mi.
- The distance between the two cities in real life is 87 miles.

2. Determine the scale of the map:
- The scale factor states that 5 inches on the map represents 29 miles in real life.

3. Set up a proportion to find the distance on the map:
- Let "x" represent the distance on the map between the two cities.
- The proportion can be set up as: 5 inches / 29 miles = x inches / 87 miles.

4. Solve the proportion:
- To solve the proportion, you can cross-multiply.
- Multiply 5 inches by 87 miles and divide the result by 29 miles.
- This will give you the distance in inches on the map between the two cities.

5. Calculate the distance on the map:
- (5 inches * 87 miles) / 29 miles = 15 inches.
- Therefore, the two cities are 15 inches apart on the map.

So, the answer is that the two cities would be approximately 15 inches apart on the map.