Scale model

A physical representation of an object or system whose dimensions are uniformly enlarged or reduced in proportion. It preserves selected geometric relationships to the original.

Geometric similarity: A relationship in which corresponding shapes have equal angles and proportional side lengths. Scale models use proportional dimensions to preserve the original object's shape.
Architectural model: A physical or digital representation of a building or proposed design. Architects use scaled physical versions to study form, layout, and presentation.
Length scale: A characteristic distance used to describe the size of an object or phenomenon. A model's stated ratio usually begins with corresponding linear dimensions.
Full-scale replica: A reproduction built at the same dimensions as its original or intended referent. It preserves size rather than deliberately changing the scale.
Scale factor: A number that multiplies a quantity to produce a corresponding quantity at a different scale. It states how much every linear dimension changes between model and original.
Ship model: A representation of a vessel, built at reduced or enlarged size. Ship models support display, historical study, and experiments in naval hydrodynamics.
Area scaling: The relationship by which areas change with the square of a linear scale factor. Reducing every length also changes surface areas by the square of that ratio.
Prototype: An early or representative version of a product or system used for evaluation or development. A prototype may be full-sized or scaled; its purpose is testing a design.
Dimensional analysis: The study of physical dimensions and units used to check equations and relate quantities. It distinguishes dimensions that scale directly from quantities requiring other scaling laws.
Wind tunnel model: A reduced-scale body tested in a controlled airflow to measure aerodynamic behavior. Its results depend on matching relevant flow conditions, not just its shape.

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