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Slope Percentage Formula:
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Slope percentage is a measure of the steepness or incline of a surface, expressed as a percentage. It represents the vertical rise per 100 units of horizontal run and is commonly used in construction, engineering, and landscaping.
The calculator uses the slope percentage formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula calculates how much the surface rises vertically for every 100 units of horizontal distance traveled.
Details: Accurate slope calculation is essential for proper drainage design, road construction, ramp accessibility compliance, roof pitching, and ensuring structural stability in various engineering and construction projects.
Tips: Enter the horizontal run distance and vertical rise distance in the same units (both in meters or both in feet). Ensure values are positive, with run greater than zero.
Q1: What is considered a steep slope?
A: Generally, slopes above 25% are considered steep, while slopes above 40% are very steep. Building codes often have specific requirements for maximum allowable slopes.
Q2: How does slope percentage relate to degrees?
A: Slope percentage = tan(angle in degrees) × 100. For example, a 45° angle equals 100% slope, while a 30° angle equals approximately 57.7% slope.
Q3: What is the maximum slope for wheelchair ramps?
A: ADA guidelines typically require a maximum slope of 8.33% (1:12 ratio) for wheelchair ramps, though local codes may vary.
Q4: Can slope percentage be negative?
A: In this calculator, slope percentage is always positive as it represents magnitude of incline. Negative values would indicate decline, but percentage is typically expressed as positive.
Q5: What units should I use?
A: You can use any units (meters, feet, etc.) as long as both run and rise are measured in the same units. The slope percentage result is unitless.