Using gradient
Gradient can be used to specify how steep a slope can be so that it is thought of as safe. This might be for examples such as:
- a wheelchair ramp
- a children's slide
- a staircase
Example
A type of children's slide must have a gradient less the \(0.39\) to get a safety certificate. Does a slide, with the measurements shown, have a suitable gradient?
Answer
Gradient \( =\frac{vertical}{horizontal}=\frac{170}{450}=0.378 \)
As this gradient is less than \(0.39\) it is a suitable gradient.
(You must make a statement like this)
Question
Design the slope for a wheelchair ramp which must have a gradient less than \(0.16\).
The ramp has to overcome a set of steps rising \(40cm\).
We have to find the distance \((d)\) so that the gradient is less than \(0.16\).
\( \frac{vertical}{horizontal}=\frac{40}{d}\leq 0.16 \)
We can do this by trial and error or by changing the equation to:
\(d\geq\frac{40}{0.16}\)
Any distance \((d)\) greater than \(250cm\) will be okay.
You should, however, pick a distance for your design such as 'The ramp could start \(260cm\) from the bottom of the steps'.
