For earthwork calculations, what does a side slope ratio of 1:2 indicate?

A side slope ratio of 1:2 indicates a relationship between the vertical height and the horizontal distance of the slope. Specifically, it means that for every unit of vertical change (rise), there are two units of horizontal change (run). This ratio is a common way to describe the steepness of slopes in earthwork calculations, which is crucial for understanding how much material will be required for grading and excavation.

In practical terms, this means if you were to measure from the top of the slope down to the bottom (the vertical height) and then measure the horizontal distance from the point directly below the top to the same vertical point (the horizontal distance), you would find that the horizontal distance is twice as much as the vertical height. This clarity in understanding slope ratios is essential for construction and land surveying, as it impacts stability, drainage, and other engineering considerations.