What HTML attribute is used to specify alternative text for an image?

The alt attribute is specifically designed to provide alternative text for images within HTML. This attribute is essential for accessibility as it allows screen readers to convey descriptive information about images to users who may not be able to see them. Additionally, if the image fails to load for any reason, the text specified in the alt attribute will be displayed in its place, ensuring that users still receive context about what the image represents.

This attribute helps enhance SEO, as search engines can understand what an image is about, assisting in the indexing process. The alt text should typically be a concise description of the image that conveys its function or content, aiding both accessibility and search engine optimization.

Other attributes listed, such as the title, src, and href attributes, serve different purposes. The title attribute provides additional information on hover but does not replace images. The src attribute defines the source of the image, indicating where the browser should retrieve the image file. Meanwhile, the href attribute specifies the destination URL for links but is unrelated to image descriptions.