1. What is Grade Slope Percentage?

Grade Slope Percentage is a measure of the steepness or incline of a surface, calculated as the ratio of vertical change to horizontal distance expressed as a percentage. It's commonly used in construction, engineering, and outdoor activities.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the grade slope formula:

Where:

• Elevation Change — Vertical difference (in meters)
• Distance — Horizontal distance (in meters)

Explanation: The formula calculates what percentage the elevation changes relative to the horizontal distance traveled.

3. Importance of Grade Slope Calculation

Details: Grade slope is crucial for designing roads, trails, and drainage systems. It affects vehicle performance, accessibility, and safety in various applications.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter elevation change and distance in meters. Both values must be positive numbers. The calculator will compute the grade slope percentage.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's considered a steep grade?
A: Generally, 5-7% is moderate, 8-15% is steep, and above 15% is very steep. Maximum grades for highways are typically 6-7%.

Q2: How does grade differ from angle?
A: Grade is a percentage (rise/run × 100), while angle is in degrees. 100% grade equals 45 degrees.

Q3: Can I use different units?
A: The calculator uses meters, but any consistent units will work (e.g., feet for both change and distance).

Q4: What about downhill slopes?
A: Downhill slopes are typically expressed as negative percentages, though this calculator shows absolute values.

Q5: How accurate is this calculation?
A: It's mathematically precise for the given inputs, but real-world measurements may have some error.