1. What is the Slope of a Ramp?

The slope of a ramp represents the steepness or incline of the ramp, calculated as the ratio of vertical rise to horizontal run. It is a dimensionless value that indicates how much the ramp rises for each unit of horizontal distance.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the slope formula:

Where:

• \( m \) — Slope (unitless)
• \( \text{rise} \) — Vertical change (in consistent units)
• \( \text{run} \) — Horizontal change (in consistent units)

Explanation: The formula calculates the steepness of a ramp by dividing the vertical height change by the horizontal distance covered.

3. Importance of Slope Calculation

Details: Calculating ramp slope is crucial for accessibility compliance, safety standards, and proper construction design. Different applications have specific slope requirements to ensure usability and safety.

4. Using the Calculator

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

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the maximum slope allowed for accessibility ramps?
A: For ADA compliance, the maximum slope for accessible ramps is 1:12 (rise:run), which equals approximately 0.0833 or 8.33% slope.

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

Q3: What units should I use for rise and run?
A: Use any consistent units (meters, feet, inches), but both measurements must use the same unit system for accurate results.

Q4: Can slope be greater than 1?
A: Yes, slopes greater than 1 indicate very steep inclines where the rise is greater than the run. These are typically not suitable for ramps.

Q5: How does slope relate to angle of incline?
A: The angle of incline (in degrees) can be calculated using the arctangent function: angle = arctan(slope). A slope of 1 equals a 45-degree angle.