17.2.1. Effect of Gradient

Try these first

1. 1.

   What is gradient in road design?

   Hint

   Think about how roads can slope upwards or downwards.

2. 2.

   Why are steep gradients avoided in road design?

   Hint

   Consider the performance of heavy trucks on hills.

3. 3.

   What is a gradient?

   • Rate of rise or fall of a road
   • The speed of vehicles
   • Traffic accumulation

   Hint

   Think about how steep a hill might be.

4. 4.

   True or False: Steeper gradients can lead to increased operational costs for heavy vehicles.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Consider what happens to trucks on steep inclines.

5. 5.

   A road has a gradient of 8%. Calculate how much the gradient affects traffic flow when heavy vehicles are present. Discuss the challenges faced by heavy vehicles ascending the gradient.

   Hint

   Think about how a truck would perform while going uphill.

6. 6.

   Design a road with a gradient where heavy vehicles commonly travel. Include recommendations for mitigating the risks of decreasing speed due to the gradient.

   Hint

   Consider how to make it easier for trucks to navigate safely.