Simulations Warmup

What is a simulation and why are they used?

• A simulation is a giant model in motion for a test.

• A simulation uses one or more models to imitate how those models might function in a real life situation.

• A simulation tests a hypothesis with 100% accuracy.

Answer explanation

A simulation uses one or more models to imitate how those models might function in a real life situation.

Which is the best way to represent answering 25 multiple-choice questions with 4 choices for each answer?

• spin a spinner with four sections 25 times

• roll a die 25 times

• flip a coin 25 times

• roll a die 4 times

Answer explanation

The best way to represent answering 25 multiple-choice questions with 4 choices for each answer is to spin a spinner with four sections 25 times.

The questions on a multiple choice test each have 6 answer choices. Which model can be used to simulate randomly selecting the correct answer on a 20 question multiple choice test?

• rolling a six-sided number cube 6 times

• rolling a six-sided number cube 20 times

• spinning a spinner with 4 equal sized sections 4 times

• choosing 1 marble in a bag of 20 different colored marbles

Answer explanation

The model that can be used to simulate randomly selecting the correct answer on a 20 question multiple choice test is rolling a six-sided number cube 20 times.

A certain brand of TV has a 50% chance of being defective. Which model could be used to determine the probability that when two TVs are chosen, they will both be defective?

• spin a spinner with 4 equal sections

• roll a die twice

• flip a coin twice

• flip a coin, then roll a die

Answer explanation

To determine the probability of both TVs being defective, flip a coin twice. Each flip represents the chance of a TV being defective, making it the appropriate model for this scenario.

Why do we use simulations?

• To create virtual reality games.

• So people can learn something.

• To test an idea in a controlled environment.

• All of the above.

Answer explanation

We use simulations to create virtual reality games, help people learn, and test ideas in a controlled environment. Therefore, the correct answer is 'All of the above.'

A scientist wants to see what would happen if a truck's tires slipped on ice.  What would the scientist use to test how the truck's tires would function in this example?

• a system

• a simulation

• a conceptual model

• a mathematical model

Answer explanation

The scientist would use a simulation to test how the truck's tires would function on ice, as simulations can replicate real-world scenarios in a controlled environment.