1. What is Slope?

Slope is a measure of the steepness or incline of a surface, typically expressed as a ratio of vertical change (rise) to horizontal change (run). It is a dimensionless quantity used extensively in engineering, construction, and topography.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the slope formula:

Where:

• \( Rise \) — Vertical height difference (meters)
• \( Run \) — Horizontal distance (meters)

Explanation: The formula calculates the ratio of vertical change to horizontal change, providing a measure of incline steepness.

3. Importance of Slope Calculation

Details: Slope calculation is essential in civil engineering for road design, drainage planning, and construction. It's also critical in architecture for ramp design, landscaping, and ensuring proper water runoff.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter both rise and run values in meters. Ensure values are positive numbers greater than zero for accurate calculation.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can slope be expressed as a percentage?
A: Yes, slope percentage = (Rise/Run) × 100%. A 100% slope equals a 45-degree angle.

Q2: What's the difference between slope and gradient?
A: While often used interchangeably, gradient typically refers to the maximum slope of a surface, while slope is the general measure of incline.

Q3: How is slope used in drainage design?
A: Proper slope ensures water flows away from structures. Minimum slopes are typically 1-2% for effective drainage.

Q4: What is a typical road slope?
A: Most roads have slopes between 2-6%. Steeper slopes may require special engineering considerations.

Q5: How do I convert slope to degrees?
A: Angle in degrees = arctan(Slope). For example, a slope of 1 (45°), 0.5 (≈26.6°), or 0.1 (≈5.7°).