1. What is Slope Percentage?

Slope percentage represents the steepness or incline of a surface, calculated as the ratio of vertical rise to horizontal run expressed as a percentage. It is commonly used in construction, engineering, and landscaping to describe gradients.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the slope percentage formula:

Where:

• \( \text{Rise} \) — Vertical distance (height difference)
• \( \text{Run} \) — Horizontal distance
• \( \times 100 \) — Converts ratio to percentage

Explanation: The formula calculates the tangent of the slope angle and expresses it as a percentage, where 100% slope equals a 45-degree angle.

3. Importance of Slope Calculation

Details: Accurate slope calculation is essential for proper drainage design, road construction, wheelchair ramp compliance, roof pitch determination, and ensuring structural stability in various engineering applications.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter rise and run values in consistent units (both meters or both feet). Ensure both values are positive numbers greater than zero for accurate calculation.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What does a 10% slope mean?
A: A 10% slope means for every 100 units of horizontal distance, the elevation changes by 10 units vertically.

Q2: How is slope percentage different from slope ratio?
A: Slope percentage is the ratio expressed as a percentage (e.g., 25%), while slope ratio is expressed as a ratio (e.g., 1:4 or 1/4).

Q3: What is the maximum slope for wheelchair ramps?
A: ADA guidelines recommend a maximum slope of 8.33% (1:12 ratio) for wheelchair ramps.

Q4: Can slope percentage exceed 100%?
A: Yes, slopes greater than 100% indicate angles steeper than 45 degrees. A 100% slope equals 45 degrees.

Q5: How do I convert slope percentage to degrees?
A: Use the formula: angle = arctan(slope percentage ÷ 100). For example, 25% slope = arctan(0.25) ≈ 14 degrees.