Topographic Gradients

Gradient

The gradient is the change in field value divided by the change in distance.

Gradient

Between 3641 ft. & 3659 ft.

Between 1201 ft. & 1239 ft.

Step 1: Identify the field values.

Gradient

Between 3641 ft. & 3659 ft.

Between 1201 ft. & 1239 ft.

Step 1: Identify the field values.The values can be inferred from the contour lines.

3647 ft.

1209 ft.

Step 2: Determine the distance using the map scale.0.5 0 0.5 Mile

Gradient

Step 2: Determine the distance using the map scale.0.5 0 0.5 Mile

Gradient

0.5 Miles

Step 2: Determine the distance using the map scale.0.5 0 0.5 Mile

Gradient

0.5 Miles0.5 Miles 0.5 Miles

Step 2: Determine the distance using the map scale.0.5 0 0.5 Mile

Gradient

0.5 Miles 0.5 Miles

Step 2: Determine the distance using the map scale.0.5 0 0.5 Mile

0.5 Miles 0.5 Miles0.5 Miles 0.5 Miles 0.5 Miles

Gradient

0.5 Miles Horizontal Distance = 1.5 Miles

0.5 0 0.5 Mile

Gradient

Horizontal Distance = 1.5 Miles

3647 ft.1209 ft.

3647 ft.1209 ft.

Horizontal Distance = 1.5 Miles1.5 Miles

1209 ft.3647 ft.

Step 3: Place the values into the formula.

Gradient

Gradient = DistanceChange in Field Value

-=

Step 4: Run the math.

= 1625.3 ft/mi

GradientThe gradient is the change in field value divided by the change in distance.

Step 1: Identify the field values.

Step 2: Determine the distance using the map scale.

Step 3: Place the values into the formula.

Step 4: Run the math.