The term "slope" refers to the steepness or incline of a line, often represented in mathematics as the ratio of the vertical change to the horizontal change between two points. It is commonly used in the context of graphs, where a positive slope indicates an upward trend, while a negative slope indicates a downward trend. The formula for calculating slope is m = \fracy_2 - y_1x_2 - x_1 , where (x_1, y_1) and (x_2, y_2) are two points on the line. In real-world applications, slope is important in various fields such as engineering, geography, and economics. For example, in civil engineering, understanding the slope of a road or a roof is crucial for drainage and safety. In geography, slope can affect erosion and water runoff, influencing land use and environmental management.