1. DYNAMIC PLANET I-1 NOTES
MODELS

2. PHYSICAL MODELS
Structures that scientists build to represent something else
May be a small-scale structure of what a much larger item looks like, or once looked like

3. Group Discussion List 2 physical models.
How can those modes be used in science?

4. Examples Dinosaurs in a museum are models built by paleontologists
Plaster casts of fossilized bones are fitted together
Paleontologists imagine what the flesh and skin may have looked like
May simulate some event or process in nature

5. Scientists build tanks, channels, or basins to reproduce large-scale natural processes like river flow or ocean waves.
Scientists are able to adjust conditions (speed of water flow, etc)
Observations can be made
May collect qualitative data

6. CONCEPTUAL MODELS Developed in the mind
Based on prior observations & knowledge, as well as physical & chemical laws
Similar to a hypothesis, however, much broader
Models may be expanded with the addition of new discoveries or information

7. Group Discussion List 2 conceptual models.
How can those modes be used in science?

8. Example Picture of an atom
Describes information about the nucleus consisting of protons & neutrons, etc.

9. MATHEMATICAL MODELS
Mathematical equations describing how some process works based on physical and chemical laws
Solving equations – similar to math class
Solutions to the equations explain how the process will work under a variety of conditions

10. Group Discussion List 2 Mathematical models.
How can those modes be used in science?

11. Examples Newton’s 2nd Law of Motion (F = M X A) E = MC2 Photosynthesis
6CO2 +6H2O+ Light Energy C6 H12 O6 + 6O2

12. NUMERICAL MODELS
Mathematical models that take too long to fully test by hand
Uses high-speed computers
Computers may quickly simulate what happens over time or with changing conditions

13. Group Discussion List 2 Numerical models.
How can those modes be used in science?

14. Examples
Climatologists develop models to study how the Earth’s climate may change in coming decades
Meteorologists combine images collected by radar and satellites to make a model of the predicted path of a hurricane

16. The End!