Gradient Slope
Derives horizontal terrain gradients and converts them to slope angle.
p=∂z/∂x, q=∂z/∂y
θ=atan(√(p²+q²))
Slope%=100·tan(θ)
Best used when: terrain steepness is required.
DEM to Slope
Calculate terrain slope from a DEM using local elevation gradients.
Terrain / ElevationEnd-User DocumentationTheory + Formula + Parameters1. What This Feature Does
Calculate terrain slope from a DEM using local elevation gradients.
Cloud workflow: choose data → configure the scientific method → run → review the resulting layer/report. No programming is required.
2. Recommended Workflow
Choose DEM/elevation band.
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Choose output unit (degrees or percent when available).
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Run slope analysis.
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Interpret with DEM resolution/vertical accuracy in mind.
3. Theory, Methods & Equations
4. Input Data
| Input | Type | Requirement | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| DEM Raster | raster | Required |
5. Parameters Available in the Application
| Parameter | Default | Choices / Range | How to Use It |
|---|---|---|---|
| Elevation Band | 1 | 1 to — | |
| Slope Unit | degrees | degrees, percent | |
| Z Factor | 1.0 | 1e-07 to — | |
| Output Nodata | -9999.0 | — |
6. Output & Interpretation
The result should be interpreted according to the selected method and the physical meaning of the input data. Preserve source units, coordinate reference information, NoData meaning, acquisition date, and preprocessing level when comparing results.
Scientific interpretation: an algorithm can produce a numerically valid result even when the input data are unsuitable. Always check masks, units, sensor characteristics, spatial resolution and reference data.
7. Best Practices
- Use analysis-ready inputs and remove invalid/cloud/noise artifacts that are not part of the target phenomenon.
- Choose parameters from the physical scale of the data, not only from visual appearance.
- Keep categorical and continuous rasters conceptually separate when selecting interpolation/resampling methods.
- Compare the result with the source image and independent reference information.
- Document the settings used when results will be compared across dates, sensors or study areas.