19.1. A 1% grade meets a +2.0% grade

Try these first

1. 1.

   What is a grade in road design?

   Hint

   Think about how steep a hill is.

2. 2.

   What does chainage measure?

   Hint

   Consider how we mark distances on roads.

3. 3.

   What is the purpose of calculating tangent lengths in road design?

   • To determine the height of the curve
   • To ensure smooth transitions between grades
   • To measure the distance of the road

   Hint

   Think about transitions when driving.

4. 4.

   True or False: The chainage is measured in kilometers.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Consider common road measurement units.

5. 5.

   If a highway section has a gradient change from -2% to +3%, explain the design considerations for setting out smooth curves and calculate the required curve lengths with a radius of 250 m.

   Hint

   Remember to account for safety, vehicle speed, and visibility!

6. 6.

   Design a road that connects a -1% grade to a +4% grade. Calculate the total length of the vertical curve needed and provide a tabulated summary of how chainage changes with distance on the curve.

   Hint

   Break it down: consider each segment as you go!