Which of the following is a common method used to analyze water quality?

Spectrophotometry is a widely used method for analyzing water quality because it enables the measurement of how much light a sample absorbs at different wavelengths. This technique is particularly effective for identifying and quantifying various substances in water, such as nutrients, pollutants, and other chemical compounds. By passing a light beam through a water sample and measuring the intensity of light that comes out on the other side, scientists can determine the concentration of specific analytes present in the sample.

In the context of water quality monitoring, spectrophotometry is favored due to its precision and ability to provide rapid results, which are crucial for assessing the safety and quality of water sources. This technique can be essential for regulatory compliance and environmental monitoring efforts.

Other methods mentioned, such as geological mapping, thermal imaging, and behavioral analysis, serve different purposes that do not coincide with direct assessment of water quality parameters. Geological mapping is more focused on understanding the distribution and arrangement of rock formations, while thermal imaging is used to detect temperature variations rather than chemical composition. Behavioral analysis pertains to studying the behavior of organisms, which is not a direct method for evaluating the components or contaminants present in water.