1. What is Stream Gradient?

Stream gradient is a measure of the steepness or slope of a stream channel, expressed as the vertical drop per unit of horizontal distance. It's a fundamental characteristic that influences stream velocity, sediment transport, and overall stream behavior.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the stream gradient formula:

Where:

• Elevation Drop — Vertical elevation change (feet)
• Distance — Horizontal distance (miles)

Explanation: The formula calculates the gradient as a percentage, representing how many feet the stream drops per mile of horizontal distance.

3. Importance of Stream Gradient Calculation

Details: Stream gradient is crucial for understanding stream energy, flood potential, habitat suitability, and engineering considerations for bridges and culverts. Steeper gradients typically mean faster water flow and greater erosive power.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter elevation drop in feet and distance in miles. Both values must be positive numbers, with distance greater than zero.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is considered a steep stream gradient?
A: Generally, gradients above 50 feet per mile are considered steep, while gradients below 10 feet per mile are considered gentle.

Q2: How does gradient affect stream velocity?
A: Higher gradients typically result in faster stream velocities, which increases the stream's capacity to transport sediment and erode its channel.

Q3: Can I use different units of measurement?
A: This calculator uses feet and miles. For metric units, you would need to convert to meters and kilometers before calculation.

Q4: Why multiply by 100 in the formula?
A: Multiplying by 100 converts the ratio to a percentage, making it easier to interpret and compare between different streams.

Q5: How accurate are stream gradient calculations?
A: Accuracy depends on the precision of your elevation and distance measurements. Using topographic maps or GPS data can improve accuracy.