GED Mathematical Reasoning TestAlgebraic Problem Solving with Graphs and FunctionsEasy
A architect is designing a ramp for a building. The ramp must rise 1.5 feet for every 18 feet of horizontal distance. What is the slope of the ramp?
- A1/6
- B1/12
- C1/3
- D1/9
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. 1/12
Slope is defined as 'rise over run'. In this case, the rise is 1.5 feet and the run is 18 feet. Divide the rise by the run to get the slope.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. This is incorrect; 1.5/18 is not 1/6.
- C. This is incorrect; 1.5/18 is not 1/3.
- D. This is incorrect; 1.5/18 is not 1/9.
Slope as Rise Over Run
Slope is a measure of the steepness of a line, calculated as the vertical change (rise) divided by the horizontal change (run) between two points on the line.
- Formula: m = rise / run
- Positive slope: line goes up from left to right
- Negative slope: line goes down from left to right
- Zero slope: horizontal line
- Undefined slope: vertical line
Memory trick: Rise up, Run across, that's how slope is made!