1. What is Slope Calculation?

Slope calculation determines the steepness or incline of a ramp, measured as the ratio of vertical change (rise) to horizontal change (run). It is a fundamental concept in mathematics, engineering, and construction.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the slope formula:

Where:

• \( \text{rise} \) — Vertical change (in units like meters or feet)
• \( \text{run} \) — Horizontal change (in units like meters or feet)

Explanation: The formula calculates the ratio that represents how much vertical change occurs per unit of horizontal distance.

3. Importance of Slope Calculation

Details: Accurate slope calculation is crucial for designing accessible ramps, road construction, drainage systems, and various engineering applications where proper incline is essential for safety and functionality.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter both rise and run values in the same units (meters, feet, etc.). Both values must be positive numbers, with run greater than zero.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a typical slope for wheelchair ramps?
A: ADA guidelines recommend a maximum slope of 1:12 (rise:run), which equals approximately 8.33% grade or 4.76 degrees.

Q2: How do you convert slope to percentage?
A: Multiply the slope by 100. For example, a slope of 0.0833 becomes 8.33% grade.

Q3: What is the difference between slope and angle?
A: Slope is a ratio (rise/run), while angle is measured in degrees. You can convert between them using trigonometric functions.

Q4: Can slope be greater than 1?
A: Yes, when the vertical change is greater than the horizontal change, the slope will be greater than 1, indicating a steep incline.

Q5: What does a negative slope indicate?
A: A negative slope indicates a downward incline, where the vertical decrease occurs as you move horizontally.