Scientific Modelling Flashcards
(18 cards)
What are scientific models?
Scientific models are essential tools that enable organized ways to comprehend the internal functioning of the world, depicting the behavior of complex systems and phenomena.
What are the uses of scientific models?
Models are used as hypotheses and explanations for complicated facts.
What is the first step in the scientific modeling process?
Observation and Question: Scientists begin by observing a phenomenon and formulating a question they want to understand.
What is the second step in the scientific modeling process?
Hypothesis: A supposition or proposed explanation derived from the basis of limited evidence.
What types of models can be created?
Models can be physical, conceptual, or mathematical.
What is the third step in the scientific modeling process?
Experimentation: The model is used to make predictions, which are then tested through experiments.
What is the fourth step in the scientific modeling process?
Results: Derived from analysis and experimentation.
What is the fifth step in the scientific modeling process?
Conclusion: A conclusion is deduced. (The model can be communicated to the science community, whether to be revised or rejected.)
What are physical models?
Physical models are three-dimensional representations of objects or systems, like scale models of an atom or a model of the solar system.
What are mathematical models?
Mathematical models are equations or simulations that describe relationships between variables, like climate models or population models.
What are conceptual models?
Conceptual models are mental or visual representations of complex systems, like an explanation of how the food chain works.
What are computational models?
Computational models are computer simulations that mimic real-world processes or systems.
Why are scientific models important?
Models help explain phenomena, make predictions, communicate ideas, develop new knowledge, and improve education.
How do models help in explaining phenomena?
Models help scientists understand complex processes and systems that are difficult to observe directly.
How do models assist in making predictions?
Models can be used to predict the behavior of systems under different conditions.
How do models facilitate communication?
Models provide a clear and concise way to communicate scientific ideas to others.
How do models contribute to developing new knowledge?
The process of creating and refining models can lead to new discoveries and insights.
How do models improve education?
Models are valuable tools for teaching and learning science, helping students visualize and understand complex concepts.
