1. 1.2 The Modeling Process

2. What is Modeling?
Modeling is the application of methods to analyze complex, real-world problems in order to make predictions about what might happen with various actions.

3. Stochastic* Behavior
A system exhibits probabilistic or stochastic behavior if an element of chance exists. A probabilistic or stochastic model exhibits random effects, whereas a deterministic model does not.
*Στόχος
= “aim” or “guess”

4. Static vs. Dynamic Models
A static model does not consider time, whereas a dynamic model changes with time.
Πάντα ῥεῖ
Heraclitus (ca. 535–475 BC)

5. Continuous vs. Discrete
In a continuous model, time changes continuously, while in a discrete model, time changes in incremental steps.
Zeno of Elea (ca. 490 BC? – ca. 430 BC?)

6. Verification vs. Validation
The process of verification determines if the solution works correctly, while the process of validation establishes if the system satisfies the problem’s requirements.