Scientific Models

(T/F) Scientific models can never be changed.

False

(T/F) Scientific models are based on current knowledge, which can limit their effectiveness when new discoveries are made.

True

Scientific models _______. a. are based on a set of observations b. are used to replace experiments c. allow the study of existing systems only d. are rarely used

a. are based on a set of observations

Explain why all models have limitations.

All models have limitations because they are not representative of every possible scenario. They use current knowledge and scientific data, but as those are subject to change, the models based off that knowledge and data are subject to change as well.

Which of the following is not an example of a scientific model? a. a diagram of a cell b. a data table c. a three-dimensional representation of an atom d. a graph showing the change in temperature and volume over time for hydrogen gas

b. a data table

A scientific model can be used to _______. a. replace study of the actual system b. better understand systems and processes c. complicate ideas d. all of the above

b. better understand systems and processes

Models need to be changed when _______. a. they are based on experimental data b. scientific understanding changes c. they represent a phenomenon d. they are designed to answer a question

b. scientific understanding changes

Which of the following types of models is most likely to be used to predict earthquakes? a. idea model b. physical model c. computer model d. none of the above

c. computer model

Scientific models can be used for a variety of different purposes. Which of the following is not a possible use for a scientific model? a. study of complex systems b. study of obsolete systems c. replace study of the larger system d. answer scientific questions

c. replace study of the larger system

What are some possible uses for scientific models?

Student answers may vary. Possible answers include three-dimensional representations of microscopic objects, computer simulations of weather patterns, small-scale representations of rockets and airplanes, and graphs derived from collecting scientific data.

Compare the idea, physical, and computer models.

The idea model is used to for relationships between variables, such as time and distance, that can be graphed or be placed into an equation. A physical model, on the other hand, is generally used for objects, such as a cell, to show the various parts and their orientation in respect to each other. A computer model is used to track weather patterns and other factors to predict natural events.

Scientists utilize models for a variety of different purposes, but each type of scientific model has limitations. What might be a limitation of existing solar system models? a. They are not based on experimentation. b. They are used for prediction. c. They cannot be changed. d. They are based on current knowledge.

d. They are based on current knowledge.

Which of the following types of models could be used to represent a cell? a. idea model b. physical model c. computer model d. all of the above

d. all of the above

List possible limitations to scientific models.

Scientific models are not a replacement for experimentation. They can be used in conjunction with experimentation to further understanding of a concept, event, or process. They are based on current scientific knowledge and may have to be changed when new discoveries are made.

Explain the purpose of scientific models.

Scientific models are used to gain a better understanding of systems and processes. Graphs derived from research experiments can be used to understand the system being studied and predict results for tests that have not yet been conducted. Three-dimensional models can be constructed to help scientists better understand very large and very small systems.

(T/F) Computer models are the only type of model that can be used to make predictions.

False

Which of the following types of models would be most effective to demonstrate the relationship between distance and time? a. idea model b. physical model c. computer model d. none of the above

a. idea model

The model of the solar system changed, because _______. a. understanding of the solar system changed. b. the order of the planets changed. c. the first model of the solar system was not built to scale d. none of the above

a. understanding of the solar system changed.

Which of the following statements about physical models is not true? a. Physical models are often three-dimensional representations. b. Physical models are used to represent an object or event. c. Physical models are usually in the form of a graph. d. Physical models can be used to depict microscopic objects.

c. Physical models are usually in the form of a graph.

Scientific models can be used for a variety of different purposes. Which of the following statements about scientific models is not true? a. Scientific models can save money and lives. b. Scientific models allow scientists to test their predictions. c. Scientific models allow scientists to study systems that no longer exist. d. Scientific models are used rarely.

d. Scientific models are used rarely.