What term describes the direction a slope faces, such as north or northeast?

Slope aspect refers to the compass direction that a slope faces, such as north, south, east, or west. Understanding slope aspect is essential in various fields such as environmental science, agriculture, and landscape planning, as it influences microclimates, vegetation types, and soil moisture.

In contrast, slope gradient refers to the steepness or degree of incline of a slope. Slope elevation pertains to the height of the land relative to a standard level, like sea level. Slope orientation is a more general term that may include aspects but is not as widely recognized in technical contexts as a term distinctly focusing on the facing direction of a slope. Thus, slope aspect is the most precise term for describing the direction a slope faces.