Hydraulic Gradient Calculator
Enter hydraulic head at the start and end of the flow path, plus the distance along that path.
A QUICK WALKTHROUGH
How to use this tool
- Enter values in consistent units and on the stated sample basis.
- Calculate and review the formula result.
Formula and source
i = (h_start − h_end) / L. Source: USGS, Basic Ground-Water Hydrology, https://wa.water.usgs.gov/pubs/ofr/ofr.95-470/hydrogeo.html; USACE EM 1110-2-1906.
Scope
Sign follows the stated start-to-end direction: positive when head drops along that direction, negative when it rises. This arithmetic is not a seepage, design or safety assessment.
Local processing
Values are processed in this browser and are not uploaded or saved.
GOOD TO KNOW
Common questions
Are the inputs uploaded?
No. The calculation runs locally in this browser.
Does this provide classification or design advice?
No. It only calculates the stated formula from entered values.