Ratiomålestokken

Ratiomålestokken, also known as the ratio scale or proportional scale, is a fundamental concept in cartography, design, and technical drawing used to represent real-world distances on a two-dimensional surface with precise accuracy. The term originates from the Latin *ratio*, meaning "proportion," and *målestokk*, the Norwegian/Danish term for "scale." It defines the relationship between the measurements on a map, drawing, or model and the actual dimensions they represent in reality.

A ratio scale is expressed as a mathematical ratio, typically written as 1:n, where "1" denotes the unit of measurement on the map or drawing, and "n" represents the corresponding number of units in the real world. For example, a scale of 1:100 means that one unit on the map corresponds to 100 units in reality. This format is widely used in engineering, architecture, and geospatial fields due to its clarity and ease of interpretation.

Ratiomålestokken is distinct from linear scales, which use graphical bars marked with measurements, as it provides a direct proportional relationship without visual ambiguity. It is particularly useful in contexts requiring precise measurements, such as land surveying, urban planning, and technical documentation. The scale ensures consistency and reduces errors in scaling, making it indispensable for professional applications.

In Norway and Denmark, where the term *målestokk* is commonly used, the concept is integrated into educational curricula for architecture and engineering students. Internationally, similar principles are applied under varying terminology, such as "representative fraction" (RF) in British English or simply "scale" in American English. The versatility of ratiomålestokken makes it a cornerstone of spatial representation across disciplines.