A slope of 45 degrees is equivalent to what percentage slope?

To convert a slope expressed in degrees to a percentage, you can use the tangent function from trigonometry. A slope of 45 degrees means that for every unit of horizontal distance, there is an equal unit of vertical rise. Therefore, the tangent of 45 degrees is 1.

To express this as a percentage, you multiply the tangent value by 100. So, for a slope of 45 degrees:

[

\tan(45^\circ) = 1 \times 100 = 100%

]

This means that a slope of 45 degrees is equivalent to a 100% slope. In practical terms, a 100% slope indicates that a structure rises one unit vertically for every unit it travels horizontally, presenting a very steep incline. This understanding is crucial for a general contractor, especially when dealing with grading, drainage, and ensuring that construction complies with local regulations regarding slopes and elevations.