1. What is the Elevation Calculation Formula?

The elevation calculation formula determines the change in elevation based on starting elevation, horizontal distance, and grade percentage. It's commonly used in construction, engineering, hiking, and various outdoor activities.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the elevation change equation:

Where:

• \( \text{Base} \) — Starting elevation in feet
• \( \text{Distance} \) — Horizontal distance traveled in feet
• \( \text{Grade} \) — Slope percentage (rise over run × 100)

Explanation: The equation calculates the total elevation by adding the elevation change (distance × grade/100) to the base elevation.

3. Importance of Elevation Calculation

Details: Accurate elevation calculation is crucial for construction planning, hiking preparation, drainage design, and various engineering applications where slope and elevation changes are critical factors.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter base elevation in feet, distance in feet, and grade as a percentage (can be positive or negative). All values must be valid numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's the difference between grade and angle?
A: Grade is rise over run expressed as a percentage (100 × rise/run), while angle is the actual slope angle in degrees.

Q2: Can I use negative grade values?
A: Yes, negative grade indicates downhill slope, which will reduce the total elevation.

Q3: How accurate is this calculation?
A: This provides theoretical elevation change. Actual terrain may vary due to uneven surfaces.

Q4: What units should I use?
A: The calculator uses feet for elevation and distance, but the formula works with any consistent units.

Q5: How does this differ from vertical rise?
A: This calculates total elevation at end point, while vertical rise would be just the change (distance × grade/100).