What does hydrological modeling study in geospatial assessments?

The study of hydrological modeling in geospatial assessments primarily focuses on water flow and distribution across landscapes. This approach encompasses understanding how water moves through various phases, including surface runoff, groundwater flow, and the interaction between these processes and the surrounding environment. Hydrological modeling utilizes various data inputs, such as precipitation patterns, land use, soil types, and topography, to simulate and predict how water behaves within a specific area, which is essential for managing water resources, predicting floods, and assessing ecological impacts.

In contrast, the other options center on different environmental aspects. Soil erosion patterns relate to the movement of soil particles and are influenced by water but are not the main focus of hydrological modeling. Urban growth studies might examine the impact of human development on ecosystems but do not pertain directly to the flow and distribution of water. Air quality metrics focus on atmospheric conditions and pollutants, which are separate from the hydrological processes involved in water movement and distribution. Therefore, hydrological modeling distinctly emphasizes the dynamics of water within landscapes.