A scale model is a small replica or representation of an object, person, place or thing that is made on a smaller scale than the original. The term “scale” refers to the ratio between the size of the model and the actual size of the real-life object it represents. For example, if a scale model of a building is one inch long for every 10 inches of the actual building’s length, then that would be a scale of 1:10. Scale models are often used to help visualize and understand complex structures or ideas, such as architectural designs, engineering projects, geographical features, or historical events. They can also serve as educational tools, collectibles, or decorative items.