What term describes the various degrees of shading between black and white?

The correct term that describes the various degrees of shading between black and white is value. In the context of art and color theory, value refers to the lightness or darkness of a color, which is fundamental in creating contrast and depth in artworks. Shading is achieved through varying values, allowing an artist to depict three-dimensional forms on a two-dimensional surface.

For instance, when an artist uses different values of a single hue, they can create highlights and shadows, giving objects volume and form. Understanding value is essential for artists because it influences how viewers perceive an artwork, making it a critical component of drawing, painting, and composition.

While hue refers to the actual color itself, and intensity (often thought of as saturation) relates to the brightness or dullness of a color, these concepts do not specifically address the gradient of lightness and darkness. Saturation refers to the purity of a color, which is not the same as value. Understanding this distinction helps clarify the importance of value in the realm of visual arts.