Scientific Model
The world can be a very confusing place. From hazardous weather to data mapping to how flowers
bloom, there are millions of systems, cycles, and phenomenon that science seeks to understand.
But how do scientists compile, make sense of, and share that understanding in a way that makes
sense to fellow scientists and the larger population? Using scientific models is a way scientists do
just that.
What is the model science definition? A scientific model is a representation of real-world
phenomena. Scientists, educators, and learners all use scientific models to understand the
phenomenon in question better. Using models can also help scientists make predictions based on
data collected about a particular phenomenon for how it may behave. Some examples of scientific
models include:
•Diagrams
•Physical 3D model
•Computer simulations7
•Mathematical formulas
How do scientists assess the quality of scientific models? A scientific model that is "good," or an
effective model:
•Makes little to no assumptions.
A scientific model that is ineffective or follows pseudo-science:
•Makes many assumptions.
There are three types of models that are generally grouped. They include visual models,
mathematical models, and computer models. All three types of models can be used in every
branch of science. Each depends largely on the type of scientific inquiry and the form of the data
collected.
Visual models are models that you can see and use to understand anatomy, processes, or any
Mathematical Models
• Mathematical models can be used to predict the outcome of a
process under new conditions. Also, if a model gives inaccurate
predictions, it can show that the process is not as well
understood as scientists thought and indicate a need for further
research. Finally, when seemingly unrelated processes follow
similar models, it can suggest that there are deeper universal
laws underlying those processes.
• How are mathematical models used in science?
• Mathematical models in science are developed based on both
empirical testing and theory. They simplify and describe complex
processes using mathematical equations. They are also used to
predict the outcome of the process under different conditions.
• What are four types of mathematical models?
• Four common types of mathematical models are
exponential decay, exponential growth, quadratic
models, and linear models. Exponential decay and
exponential growth models describe quantities that
decrease or increase following an exponential curve.
Quantities in quadratic models change along a
parabola, and quantities in linear models change in a
straight line.
• computer model is a computer program that is
designed to simulate what might or what did happen
in a situation. They are used in many ways including
in economics and sciences such as astronomy,
physics and biology.
A NASA supercomputer. Computers like these are often used to run the most complicated
computer models
Computer models are also used in fields such as earthquake performance simulation and making models of buildings.
Computer models can accurately predict many things in the future provided they have information data from previous similar situations.[1] However they are not always 100% accurate.
Particles of Matter
• Condensation is the process by which a gas changes to a
liquid. A gas in contact with its liquid or solid phase is often
called a vapor.
• Boiling is the conversion of a liquid to a vapor within the
liquid as well as at its surface. The boiling point of a liquid
is the temperature at which the equilibrium vapor pressure
of the liquid equals the atmospheric pressure. The lower
the atmospheric pressure is, the lower the boiling point is
• Freezing and Melting The physical change of a liquid to a
solid is called freezing. Freezing involves a loss of energy
in the form of heat by the liquid.
