Vertical Exaggeration Calculator

📐 Vertical Exaggeration (VE) Calculator

Calculate the factor by which vertical dimensions are stretched in your maps or models.

Input Scale Information

1. Horizontal Scale (e.g., 1:50,000)

1 :

The denominator of the map’s horizontal scale.

2. Vertical Scale (e.g., 1:5,000)

1 :

The denominator of the model’s vertical scale.

Calculated Result

Vertical Exaggeration (VE)

—

Times

Interpretation:

Enter your scale values above to see how exaggerated your model is.

Visualization of Exaggeration (VE)

Horizontal Scale (1:50,000) Vertical Scale (1:5,000)

VE: 10x

What is Vertical Exaggeration?

Vertical Exaggeration is the ratio between the vertical scale and the horizontal scale on a map, cross-section, or 3D model. It is used to make geological features (like mountains, dips, and folds) more visible and pronounced, as they often appear too flat when drawn using the true scale.

The Formula:

$$ VE = \frac{\text{Horizontal Scale Denominator}}{\text{Vertical Scale Denominator}} $$

Example: If Horizontal Scale is 1:50,000 and Vertical Scale is 1:5,000: $$ VE = \frac{50,000}{5,000} = 10 $$

**Disclaimer:** Always ensure both your horizontal and vertical scale denominators use the same units (e.g., both are in meters, or both are unit-less ratios) for the calculation to be valid. Exaggeration can sometimes distort interpretation if not noted.