Vökvafræði

Vökvafræði is an Icelandic term that translates to "hydrology" in English. It is the scientific study of the movement, distribution, and management of water on Earth and other planets, including the water cycle, water resources, and environmental watershed sustainability. This field encompasses the occurrence and properties of water on the Earth's surface, in the soil and ground, and in the atmosphere.

The study of vökvafræði involves understanding various hydrological processes such as precipitation, evaporation, transpiration, infiltration, runoff, and groundwater flow. Hydrologists use this knowledge to address issues related to water availability, water quality, flood control, drought management, and the impact of human activities on water systems. It plays a crucial role in managing water resources for agriculture, industry, and domestic use, as well as in environmental protection and ecosystem health.

Vökvafræði is an interdisciplinary science that draws upon fields like geology, meteorology, geography, physics, chemistry, and engineering. Its applications are widespread, impacting urban planning, disaster preparedness, and the development of sustainable water management strategies.