*3.3. Slope Length*

Slope length indicates the physical characteristic of the slope in terms of its extension and magnitude. It helps determine the flow and highlight possible regions of groundwater retention [100]. Being a primary factor for groundwater contribution, slope length determines runoff strength and the groundwater flow direction. Slope length also indicates the amount of rainfall that would reach the groundwater table through infiltration [100,108,109]. Gentle slopes have greater infiltration capacity, displaying greater groundwater recharge potential and vice versa [100]. Slope lengths help understand the flow of precipitation as the water runs off from higher elevation towards the lower elevation. Considering that our study area is predominantly sloped in the northern parts due to mountain ranges, this is an important factor in this research.
