What command is used to list the contents of a directory?

The command used to list the contents of a directory is "ls." This command is primarily used in Unix-like operating systems, including Linux and macOS, and it outputs the names of the files and directories present in the current directory.

The "ls" command can also be modified with various options to display additional information, such as file permissions, sizes, and modification dates, which enhances its functionality. This makes it a versatile tool for users navigating the filesystem in a command-line environment.

In contrast, while "dir" is also a command that lists directory contents, it is specific to Windows operating systems. "view" is not a standard command used for listing files, and "list" is not a recognized command in most command-line interfaces. Therefore, "ls" is the most widely recognized and applicable command for this purpose across multiple operating systems.