1. What is Elevation Grade?

Elevation grade (or gradient) is a measure of steepness or the degree of incline of a surface. In the UK, it's commonly expressed as a percentage representing the ratio between vertical rise and horizontal run.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the elevation grade formula:

Where:

• \( Rise \) — Vertical elevation change (in meters)
• \( Run \) — Horizontal distance (in meters)

Explanation: The formula calculates the percentage of vertical change relative to the horizontal distance.

3. Importance of Grade Calculation

Details: Understanding elevation grade is crucial for construction, road design, cycling routes, hiking trails, and drainage planning in the UK's varied topography.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter both rise and run in meters. For accurate results, measure the horizontal distance (run) precisely, not the slope distance.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's considered a steep grade in the UK?
A: In the UK, grades above 10% are considered steep for vehicles, while cyclists often find grades above 5% challenging.

Q2: How does UK grade calculation differ from other countries?
A: The UK uses the same percentage grade system as most countries, though some nations may express steepness in degrees.

Q3: What's the maximum grade allowed on UK roads?
A: UK highway design typically limits grades to 10% for major roads, with exceptions up to 25% in hilly areas.

Q4: How accurate should my measurements be?
A: For engineering purposes, measurements should be precise. For general use, approximate measurements are sufficient.

Q5: Can I use this for wheelchair ramp planning?
A: Yes, but note UK regulations limit wheelchair ramp grades to 5% (1:20) for unassisted use, up to 8% (1:12) for short ramps.