IBDP: Modelling and Simulation 2

What is a computer model?

• A physical representation of a system
• A program developed to mimic how a system works in real life
• A detailed diagram of a computer system
• A simulation of computer hardware

Answer explanation

Explanation for the answer (optional)

NOT a data type

• Integer

• Boolean

• Typeface

• Float

• String

A computer simulation:

• Is the physical construction of a computer model
• Uses a model to mimic real-life activities
• Is a static representation of a system at a point in time
• Always uses physical movements for visualization

Answer explanation

Jupiter is a gas giant made primarily of hydrogen and helium. Unlike terrestrial planets that have solid surfaces, gas giants like Jupiter don't have a well-defined solid surface, allowing them to accumulate more mass in a gaseous form. This composition has allowed Jupiter to grow significantly larger than planets with solid surfaces.

What is the main difference between a model and a simulation?

• A model runs over a represented time period; a simulation does not
• A simulation uses computer graphics for visualization; a model does not
• A model represents behavior at a snapshot in time; simulations run over time
• Simulations are purely mathematical; models use graphics

Which of the following is NOT an advantage of computer modelling?

• To train people without putting them at risk
• To predict future system behavior with absolute certainty
• To test a system without creating it for real
• To investigate a system in detail

A major disadvantage of models and simulations is:

• They can predict every possible situation
• The results depend on the model's accuracy and data used to create it
• They do not require expensive equipment
• They provide real-life situations perfectly

Which statement about spreadsheets is true?

• They cannot carry out a what-if analysis
• They can be used for what-if analysis by changing input values
• Output from spreadsheets cannot be graphed or charted
• Formulas in spreadsheets are not necessary for calculations

One limitation of modelling that might need addressing is:

• Inclusion of too many variables such as wind and air pressure changes
• The projectile model including too much air resistance
• Financial models accurately predicting global economic crashes
• The projectile model not including air resistance

In simulations, test cases are important to:

• Increase the cost of development unnecessarily
• Validate the simulation against known outcomes
• Make the simulation less reliable
• Decrease the simulation's accuracy

What is one benefit of using simulations?

• They guarantee accurate predictions in all scenarios
• They make training safer by avoiding the risk of death
• They are always cheaper and easier than real-life experiments
• They cannot address unusual situations