Question 182406
<font face="Times New Roman" size="+2">


A 1:12 ratio would be 1" on the model represents 1' in real life.  So, 20.5 feet in real life would be represented by 20.5 inches on the model.


As to the speed, if you were modeling something you would want your model to travel the model distance per unit time to match the real train's real distance per unit time.  So if it takes the model 7 seconds to cross the model bridge, it should take the real train 7 seconds to cross the real bridge.  Which really makes sense, if you think about it.  The real train only has to travel 41 feet to get across the real pond.  If that took a minute and a half as you suggested, that would be a mighty slow train.  As it is, 7 seconds to cross 41 feet is less than 6 feet per second which is only about 4 mph.



John
*[tex \LARGE e^{i\pi} + 1 = 0]
</font>