Gradient

Inquiry How do we measure and describe gradients on maps and in the field? How does a map indicate gradients? What is the relationship between gradient and land use?

How do we measure and describe gradients on maps and in the field?

How does a map indicate gradients?

What is the relationship between gradient and land use?

Getting the right answer Gradient measures the steepness of a slope. Step 1 : Measure the rise (difference in height between 2 points) Step 2 : Measure the run (the distance between 2 points). Make sure that you convert the scale into metres Both the rise and run need to be expressed in metres.

Gradient measures the steepness of a slope.

Step 1 : Measure the rise (difference in height between 2 points)

Step 2 : Measure the run (the distance between 2 points). Make sure that you convert the scale into metres

Both the rise and run need to be expressed in metres.

A worked example Say the rise is 42 metres and the run is 600 metres. 42(rise)/600(run) - Formula (divide the top by itself and the bottom by the top) Divide 42 by itself = 1 Divide 600 by 42 = 14.3

Say the rise is 42 metres and the run is 600 metres.

42(rise)/600(run) - Formula (divide the top by itself and the bottom by the top)

Divide 42 by itself = 1

Divide 600 by 42 = 14.3

Expressing the answer The answer can be expressed in three ways: a) As a statement 1 in 14.3 b) As a ratio 1: 14.3 c) As a representative fraction 1/14.3

The answer can be expressed in three ways:

a) As a statement 1 in 14.3

b) As a ratio 1: 14.3

c) As a representative fraction 1/14.3

What does the answer really mean? What does 1 in 14.3 mean? It means for every 14.3 metres travelled along the ground between the two points you would go up one metre. This is a gentle or gradual slope.

What does 1 in 14.3 mean?

It means for every 14.3 metres travelled along the ground between the two points you would go up one metre. This is a gentle or gradual slope.

Now think of some examples of how gradient relates to land use

How does the gradient of the slope contribute to the severity of bushfires?

Create a question on gradient and test another student Make sure you have the right answer before you test them

Make sure you have the right answer before you test them