Terrain

analysis Terrain analysis is the study of landforms and the processes that shape them. It is an important tool in many disciplines, including geology, hydrology, ecology, archaeology and engineering. Terrain analysis provides information on the physical characteristics of the land, such as slope, elevation, aspect, surface drainage and soils that can be used to identify areas of risk, as well as to inform planning, environmental management and land use decisions. With the increasing availability of high-resolution digital elevation models, terrain analysis is becoming increasingly important in gaining insight into the structure of the Earth's surface.