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Average Gradient

The document discusses the calculation of average gradient, indicating that for every 111.11 horizontal units traveled, there is a 1 unit elevation, resulting in a gentle gradient. It provides guidelines for calculating and expressing gradient as a ratio of vertical to horizontal distance. Additionally, it poses exam questions related to the implications of this gradient on river velocity, erosive abilities, settlement development, and the accuracy of the gradient as a reflection of reality.

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3 views9 pages

Average Gradient

The document discusses the calculation of average gradient, indicating that for every 111.11 horizontal units traveled, there is a 1 unit elevation, resulting in a gentle gradient. It provides guidelines for calculating and expressing gradient as a ratio of vertical to horizontal distance. Additionally, it poses exam questions related to the implications of this gradient on river velocity, erosive abilities, settlement development, and the accuracy of the gradient as a reflection of reality.

Uploaded by

evidencemokoena00
Copyright
© All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd

AVERAGE

GRADIENT
.
VI = 1256 m – 1233.5 m = 22.5 m
HE = 5 cm x 500 m = 2 500 m
INTERPRETATION
This means that for every 111.11 units that you travel horizontally,
there will be an elevation of 1 unit.
Average gradient is gentle
EXAM TYPE QUESTION ON APPLICATION OF CALCULATION
1. Is the gradient steep or gentle. Give a reason for your answer.
2. Comment on the velocity and erosive abilities of the river flowing
down this gradient
3. Explain the impact this gradient has on the development of
settlements.
4. Why is the answer not a true reflection of reality.
SUMMARY
• Always remember these rules based on the formula.
• Both the numerator and the denominator are in metres.
• Divide the figure above the line (numerator) into the figure below the line
(denominator) so that the vertical cancels to 1. (Punch the denominator into your
calculator first).
• Gradient is expressed as a ratio: Vertical distance : Horizontal distance
• So, the answer is always given as 1 to something e.g. 1:25, where 1 represents
the vertical distance and 25 the horizontal distance.
• Thus the gradient of 1:25 means that for every 25 metres you have moved
horizontally, you raise 1 metre.
• To convert the height measured to a value of 1 you must divide this measurement
by itself. Because you are dealing with a fraction, what you do to the top
(numerator) you must also do to the bottom (denominator). You must therefore
also divide the horizontal distance by the vertical distance.
• The greater the horizontal distance the more gentle the gradient.

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