What is UV maps in 3D modeling nodes?

In 3D modeling nodes, UV maps are 2D layouts of a 3D object’s surface that assign 2D texture coordinates to 3D vertices, linking 2D textures to 3D geometry. They work by "unfolding" 3D shapes into flat 2D space (like unwrapping a box), so textures align correctly with the model’s curves—preventing stretching on parts like a character’s hand or a product’s edge. For beginners, using node tools to adjust UV seams (where the "unfold" starts/ends) can make texturing smoother, especially for organic shapes like faces or fabric. Overall, UV maps are essential for accurate, non-stretched texturing in 3D modeling nodes, bridging 2D art and 3D objects.