North Carolina General Contractors Practice Exam

What describes a positive grade and negative grade in terms of slope?

1. Level surface and uphill slope

2. Uphill slope and downhill slope

3. Flat terrain and steep rise

4. Descending incline and ascending incline

The correct answer is: Uphill slope and downhill slope

A positive grade indicates an uphill slope, meaning that as you move horizontally along the surface, the elevation increases. This is often associated with a positive number indicating that the slope rises as you progress from left to right. Conversely, a negative grade denotes a downhill slope, wherein the elevation decreases as you move horizontally. This negative slope indicates a decline, often represented by a negative number. Understanding these concepts is crucial in construction and land development, as slopes affect drainage, foundation integrity, and overall land usability. Recognizing the distinction between positive and negative grades is fundamental for general contractors when planning and implementing projects.