---
title: "Slope — AP Calculus Definition & Exam Guide"
description: "Slope measures how fast y changes per unit of x. In AP Calc, the derivative IS the slope of the tangent line, the idea behind Units 2 and 7."
canonical: "https://fiveable.me/ap-calc/key-terms/slope"
type: "key-term"
subject: "AP Calculus AB/BC"
---

# Slope — AP Calculus Definition & Exam Guide

## Definition

The slope refers to the steepness of a line. It measures how much a line rises or falls for every unit it moves horizontally.

## Related Study Guides

- [2.3 Estimating Derivatives of a Function at a Point](/ap-calc/unit-2/estimating-derivatives-function-at-point/study-guide/EzDxIj2eOHj3Ysb68Ew5)
- [7.5 Approximating Solutions Using Euler’s Method](/ap-calc/unit-7/approximating-solutions-using-eulers-method/study-guide/XZF01jg29LPjZaV7jKjE)
- [2.2 Defining the Derivative of a Function and Using Derivative Notation](/ap-calc/unit-2/defining-derivative-function-using-derivative-notation/study-guide/j9KaEWbB5OECijykhxCD)

## Review

### Related Terms

- [Rate of Change](/ap-calc/key-terms/rate-of-change): This term refers to how quickly one quantity changes in relation to another.
- Gradient: The gradient is another word for slope and represents the change in vertical distance divided by the change in horizontal distance.
- Positive/Negative Slope: Positive slope indicates an upward direction, while negative slope indicates a downward direction.