What does the term "grade" refer to in the context of a slope?

In the context of a slope, "grade" is defined as the slope expressed as a percentage. This percentage is calculated by determining the rise over the run, where the rise is the vertical change and the run is the horizontal distance. For example, a grade of 10% indicates that for every 100 units of horizontal distance, there is a vertical rise of 10 units.

Understanding the term "grade" is crucial for various applications, especially in construction and heavy equipment operation, as it informs operators about the steepness of the terrain and influences decisions regarding safety, equipment capability, and stability. This is why the measurement of slope as a percentage is particularly important when working with cranes and other heavy machinery, as it impacts operational safety and efficiency on inclines or declines.