All flashcards
Flashcard 1: What is a key feature of a good explanatory model?
Answer: Testability. Good models generate predictions that can be experimentally verified.
Flashcard 2: What is the relationship between data and model accuracy?
Answer: Higher quality data improves accuracy. Better data inputs lead to more reliable model outputs and predictions.
Flashcard 3: Identify a limitation of using computer simulations.
Answer: Results can be sensitive to initial conditions. Small input changes can dramatically alter simulation outcomes.
Flashcard 4: What is a dynamic model?
Answer: A model that accounts for changes over time. Captures how systems evolve and change through time.
Flashcard 5: What is the correct interpretation if repeated trials reduce random error in a model test?
Answer: The mean becomes more reliable and precision increases. Multiple trials average out random variations.
Flashcard 6: Identify the systematic error: A scale reads +2 g for every object, including a 0 g standard.
Answer: A constant positive offset (zeroing error). Consistent positive offset indicates calibration error.
Flashcard 7: Identify the best-supported statement: Data show Y changes only when X exceeds a threshold.
Answer: Y depends on X with a threshold effect. Data shows response only above a critical value.
Flashcard 8: What is a dependent variable when evaluating a model using an experiment?
Answer: The measured outcome that responds to the independent variable. The dependent variable responds to changes in the independent variable.
Flashcard 9: Which term describes the refinement of a model as new data emerges?
Answer: Model iteration. Scientists continuously refine models as new data becomes available.
Flashcard 10: Identify the error in this statement: 'Models prove theories.'
Answer: Models support, but do not prove, theories. Models provide evidence for theories but cannot definitively prove them.
Flashcard 11: Determine the primary weakness of a simplistic model.
Answer: Lack of detail and accuracy. Oversimplified models miss important variables affecting real-world outcomes.
Flashcard 12: What is an example of a physical model?
Answer: A scale model of the solar system. Physical models use tangible objects to represent real-world structures.
Flashcard 13: What is the difference between a model and a simulation?
Answer: A simulation is a dynamic model execution. Simulations actively run models through time or different conditions.
Flashcard 14: Which factor is most crucial when evaluating a scientific explanation?
Answer: Consistency with evidence. Scientific explanations must align with observed data and experimental results.
Flashcard 15: What distinguishes a descriptive model from other models?
Answer: Focus on detailing phenomena. Descriptive models emphasize accurate representation of observed phenomena.
Flashcard 16: Which type of error is reduced by repeating measurements many times: random or systematic?
Answer: Random error. Repetition averages out random fluctuations.
Flashcard 17: Identify a way to assess a model's explanatory power.
Answer: Evaluate how well it explains observed phenomena. Good models should account for and predict observed patterns effectively.
Flashcard 18: What is the role of peer review in model evaluation?
Answer: To ensure the model is scrutinized by other experts. Independent evaluation identifies flaws and validates model quality.
Flashcard 19: Which factor can lead to a model's revision?
Answer: New data that contradicts the model's predictions. Models must adapt when evidence shows their predictions are wrong.
Flashcard 20: Identify a limitation of using computer simulations.
Answer: Results can be sensitive to initial conditions. Small input changes can dramatically alter simulation outcomes.
Flashcard 21: What is a model's scope?
Answer: The range of conditions under which it is applicable. Defines the boundaries where the model produces reliable results.
Flashcard 22: What is an empirical model?
Answer: A model based on observed and measured data. Built directly from experimental observations and measurements.
Flashcard 23: What does it mean if a model is deterministic?
Answer: It produces the same output from the same input. No randomness - identical inputs always yield identical outputs.
Flashcard 24: Identify the primary purpose of a control group in experiments.
Answer: To serve as a baseline for comparison. Controls isolate the effect being studied from other variables.
Flashcard 25: Identify a sign of a model's overfitting.
Answer: Excellent fit to training data but poor generalization. Model memorizes training data instead of learning general patterns.
Flashcard 26: How can model assumptions affect outcomes?
Answer: Unjustified assumptions can lead to inaccuracies. Faulty assumptions propagate errors throughout model predictions.
Flashcard 27: What is the impact of model complexity on usability?
Answer: Increased complexity may reduce ease of use. More complex models are often harder to understand and apply.
Flashcard 28: What is sensitivity analysis in model evaluation?
Answer: Assessing how changes in inputs affect outputs. Tests how robust model predictions are to input variations.
Flashcard 29: Identify a strength of using a qualitative model.
Answer: Provides insight without requiring precise measurement. Captures general patterns without requiring exact numerical data.
Flashcard 30: What is a stochastic model?
Answer: Incorporates randomness in predictions. Accounts for uncertainty and variability in real-world systems.