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Percent Grade to Angle Calculator

Angle Formula:

\[ \theta = \arctan\left(\frac{G}{100}\right) \]

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1. What is a Percent Grade to Angle Calculator?

Definition: This calculator converts a slope percentage (grade) to the corresponding angle in degrees.

Purpose: It helps engineers, surveyors, and construction professionals translate between these two common slope measurement systems.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

\[ \theta = \arctan\left(\frac{G}{100}\right) \]

Where:

Explanation: The grade percentage is divided by 100 to convert to a ratio, then the arctangent function calculates the corresponding angle.

3. Importance of Grade to Angle Conversion

Details: Understanding both measurements is crucial for road design, wheelchair ramps, roof pitches, and other slope-related projects.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Simply enter the grade percentage (e.g., 5% for a gentle slope or 100% for a 45° angle). The calculator handles both positive and negative grades.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's the difference between grade and angle?
A: Grade is rise over run expressed as a percentage (e.g., 10% = 10 ft rise per 100 ft horizontal). Angle is the actual slope in degrees.

Q2: What does a 100% grade mean?
A: A 100% grade equals a 45° angle (rise equals run). Grades above 100% are steeper than 45°.

Q3: How do I convert angle back to percent grade?
A: Use: Grade (%) = tan(angle) × 100. We may add this reverse calculator in the future.

Q4: What's the maximum possible grade percentage?
A: Theoretically infinite (vertical slope), but practical limits exist based on application (e.g., roads rarely exceed 15%).

Q5: How accurate is this conversion?
A: Mathematically precise, but remember that real-world slopes may vary slightly due to measurement methods.

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