6.2 Modelling applications

• Computer modelling


  • An attempt to abstract the rules and mechanisms that control real-life systems and apply them in computer programs so that they can be used to simulate the behaviour of those systems
• Mathematical formula


  An expression or equation that expresses the relationship between particular quantities
• Simulate


  To make something that looks and acts like a real object or situation but isn't real
• Personal financial model


  Creating a plan to manage a person's budget
• Modelling software


  Programs used to create computer models
• Applications of computer modelling

  • Personal finance
  • Bridge and building design
  • Flood water management
  • Traffic management
  • Weather forecasting
• Personal finance modelling


  • Predicts finances into the future, shows expected regular income and expenditure, allows user to see what would happen if they changed something
• Spreadsheets


  • Very valuable for simple computer modelling because they allow 'what if...?' questions to be asked
• Bridge and building design modelling


  • Can be used to test designs under extreme weather conditions without endangering anyone, test different amounts of heavy traffic or temperatures
• Flood water management modelling


  • Provides predictions of the extent and depth of flooding, assesses risks to life and property, informs decision making about flood defences
• Traffic management modelling


  • Develops information to support decisions about managing traffic systems, can determine type of traffic control to use, investigate effects of changes to roads and traffic flow
• Weather forecasting modelling


  • Uses detailed models of the atmosphere to predict weather conditions, requires data on air movement, heat and moisture exchange, air pressure, wind strength, temperature, and moisture
• Advantages of computer modelling include safety, less expense, ability to test more situations, and faster results
• Disadvantages of computer modelling include complexity, difficulty identifying all rules correctly, model not matching reality, high setup costs, and potential for human programming errors