Introduction

Hydrological modeling abstracts real-world water systems into a manageable form, using physical,
mathematical, or computer simulations. These models are classified based on their structure and the
spatial-temporal processes they represent. Rainfall-runoff modeling is an important aspect of
hydrologic analysis and design. Choice of an appropriate approach to modeling of rainfall to runoff
transformation process in a basin is influenced by various factors which include (i) typical features of
the system; (ii) objectives of the study; (iii) degree of realism; and (iv) availability of data and
resources; and (v) time scale of analysis.

Rainfall-Runoff Models
A model is a simplified representation of a complex system. It aids in making decisions, particularly
where data or information are scarce or there are large-number of options to choose from. Hydrological
models represent the physical/ chemical/biological characteristics of the catchment and simulate the
natural hydrological processes. Hydrological models are essentially mathematical models where the
physical processes of hydrologic cycle are described by a set of mathematical equations, logical
statements, boundary conditions and initial conditions, expressing relationships between inputs,
variables and parameters. Hydrological models may be broadly classified in two groups:
A) Deterministic Hydrological Models
B) Stochastic Hydrological Models.

A) Deterministic Hydrological Model

A deterministic hydrological model is one in which the processes are modelled based on definite
physical laws and no uncertainties in prediction are admitted. Deterministic models permit only one
outcome from a simulation with one set of inputs and parameter values. It has no component with
stochastic behaviour, i.e. the variables are free from random variation and have no distribution in
probability. Deterministic models can be further classified according to whether the model gives a
spatially lumped or distributed description of the catchment area, and whether the description of the
hydrological processes is empirical, conceptual or fully physically based.

The Essence of Unsteady Flow Models

Unsteady flow models are crucial when dealing with systems where flow rates, velocity, and depth
vary over time and space. These models take into account the transient nature of hydrological
phenomena, making them particularly useful for predicting flood events, designing flood control
structures, and managing water resources in a changing climate.
One of the main challenges in hydrological modeling is the complexity and heterogeneity of
watersheds. The nonlinearity of hydrological and erosion behaviors makes it difficult to fully grasp the
connections within these systems. Therefore, while measurements are a reliable criterion, they are
not sufficient on their own, necessitating the use of models to simulate processes like rain-runoff and
analyze runoff flow in rivers.

I) Distributed Model The input parameters in distributed models are allowed fully to vary in space at
a resolution chosen by the user. These models considered the hydrological processes taking place at
various point in space and defined the model variables as function of the space dimensions. An attempt
has been made in these models to incorporate data concerning the spatial variability distribution of
parameters along with the computational algorithms. These models requires large amount of input data.
The governing physical processes occurring in nature are modeled in detail in these models. The results
obtained through these models are at any location and time. If accurate data regarding inputs are
available, highest accuracy is achieved with these hydrological models while modeling the natural
process such as rainfall-runoff modeling. These models require high computational time. A distributed
model can make predictions that are distributed in space by dividing the entire catchment in to small
units, usually square cells or triangulated irregular network, so that the parameters, inputs and outputs
can vary spatially.

II) Physically Based/mechanistic models This is a mathematically idealized representation of the real
phenomenon. include the principles of physical processes. It uses state variables which are measurable
and are functions of both time and space. The hydrological processes of water movement are
represented by finite difference equations. It does not require extensive hydrological and
meteorological data for their calibration but the evaluation of large number of parameters describing
the physical characteristics of the catchment are required. In this method huge amount of data such as
soil moisture content, initial water depth, topography, topology, dimensions of river network etc. are
required. Physical model can overcome many defects of the other two models because of the use of
parameters having physical interpretation. It can provide large amount of information even outside the
boundary and can applied for a wide range of situations. SHE/ MIKE SHE model is an example.

Conclusion
Hydrological models with unsteady deterministic properties are essential for water resource
management. They allow us to anticipate and get ready for the dynamic shifts that occur in our water
systems, so that we can decide on sustainable development with knowledge.

Reference
Dr Sharad K Jain Scientist G, NIH Roorkee, INTRODUCTION TO HYDROLOGIC MODELING
Aparajita Singh GRD Journal for Engineering, A Concise Review on Introduction to Hydrological
Models