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Hydrology is a branch of Earth science that examines water's movement, storage, and characteristics in nature, along with its interactions with both ecological and human systems. This discipline centers on key physical processes like rainfall, water absorption by plants, vaporization, plant water release, soil absorption, underground water replenishment, subsurface water movement, and river flow that circulate water through ecosystems. The field employs mathematical models of these phenomena and statistical approaches to address spatial differences and changing patterns over time. Various civil and environmental engineering projects—including water resource planning, dam stability assessments, drainage system development, agricultural watering solutions, water allocation management, river rehabilitation, flood risk control, and drought response strategies—require hydrologic evaluation, simulation, and planning. Additionally, hydrology intersects with important policy matters such as adjusting to climate shifts, sustaining agriculture and power generation, and city development strategies.