What type of slope is indicated by a greater ground distance ratio compared to the height difference?

The correct answer reflects the relationship between ground distance and height difference when evaluating a slope. A gentle slope is characterized by a greater horizontal distance in relation to a smaller vertical change. This means that when moving across a gentle slope, you would cover more ground horizontally for each unit of elevation change, resulting in a lower ratio of height difference to ground distance.

In practical terms, a gentle slope is easier to traverse and requires less effort than navigating steep grades, where the height change is significant compared to the horizontal distance. The concept of ground distance compared to vertical rise is crucial in fields such as land navigation and terrain analysis as it impacts movement strategies and energy expenditure. Understanding this relationship allows individuals to assess terrain effectively and make informed decisions regarding movement and maneuvering in an operational context.