1. What is Slope Percentage?

Slope percentage, also known as grade percentage, represents the steepness of a slope expressed as a percentage. It is calculated as the ratio of vertical rise to horizontal run multiplied by 100.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the slope percentage formula:

Where:

• \( \text{Rise} \) — Vertical height difference (meters)
• \( \text{Run} \) — Horizontal distance (meters)
• \( \text{Grade \%} \) — Slope expressed as percentage

Explanation: This formula converts the slope ratio into a percentage value, making it easier to understand and compare slope steepness.

3. Importance of Slope Calculation

Details: Slope percentage calculations are essential in civil engineering, road construction, landscaping, architecture, and various sports activities. They help determine the feasibility and safety of slopes for different applications.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the rise and run values in meters. Both values must be positive numbers greater than zero. The calculator will automatically compute the slope percentage.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is considered a steep slope?
A: Generally, slopes above 15% are considered steep, while slopes above 25% are very steep and may require special considerations for construction.

Q2: How does slope percentage relate to degrees?
A: Slope percentage = tan(angle in degrees) × 100. For example, a 45° angle equals 100% slope.

Q3: What are common applications of slope percentage?
A: Road design, wheelchair ramp construction, roof pitch calculation, hiking trail grading, and agricultural land assessment.

Q4: What is the maximum slope for wheelchair ramps?
A: ADA guidelines recommend a maximum slope of 8.33% (1:12 ratio) for wheelchair ramps.

Q5: Can slope percentage be negative?
A: In standard calculations, slope percentage is positive. Negative values might indicate downward slope direction but are typically expressed as positive percentages with direction specified.