All flashcards
Flashcard 1: What is an 'output variable' in simulations?
Answer: Variable that results from the simulation process. Dependent variable calculated from model inputs.
Flashcard 2: Identify a tool commonly used for building simulations.
Answer: Python. Popular language with extensive simulation libraries.
Flashcard 3: What is 'sensitivity analysis' in simulations?
Answer: Assesses impact of variable changes on outcomes. Tests model robustness to parameter variations.
Flashcard 4: Why is validation crucial in simulations?
Answer: Ensures model accuracy and reliability. Confirms model represents reality correctly.
Flashcard 5: What is meant by 'initial conditions' in simulations?
Answer: Starting parameters for a simulation run. Baseline state from which simulation evolves.
Flashcard 6: What is the significance of 'time step' in simulations?
Answer: Defines the interval for updating the simulation. Smaller steps increase accuracy but require more computation.
Flashcard 7: What is the primary goal of a simulation model?
Answer: To replicate a system's behavior accurately. Faithful representation enables valid predictions.
Flashcard 8: What is a 'deterministic simulation'?
Answer: A simulation with no random elements. Predictable outcomes with identical inputs every time.
Flashcard 9: What role does visualization play in simulations?
Answer: Helps interpret and analyze simulation data. Makes complex data patterns more understandable.
Flashcard 10: What does 'real-time simulation' mean?
Answer: Simulation that runs concurrently with real time. Processes data at same speed as reality.
Flashcard 11: What is a 'baseline model' in simulations?
Answer: A simple model for comparison with complex ones. Provides reference point for evaluating improvements.
Flashcard 12: Identify a risk of overfitting in simulations.
Answer: Poor generalization to new data. Model becomes too specific to training data.
Flashcard 13: What does 'parameter tuning' involve?
Answer: Adjusting model parameters for optimal performance. Optimizes model performance through parameter adjustment.
Flashcard 14: Identify an advantage of digital simulations over physical models.
Answer: Easier to modify and replicate. Digital models allow rapid iteration and testing.
Flashcard 15: What does 'scalability' refer to in simulations?
Answer: Ability to handle larger or more complex models. Determines how well system handles increased complexity.
Flashcard 16: Identify a characteristic of a 'probabilistic model'.
Answer: Incorporates randomness and uncertainty. Uses probability distributions for realistic modeling.
Flashcard 17: What is a 'dynamic simulation'?
Answer: Models systems that change over time. Captures temporal evolution and state transitions.
Flashcard 18: Identify an industry heavily reliant on simulations.
Answer: Automotive industry. Vehicle design and crash testing use simulations.
Flashcard 19: Find and correct the error: 'Simulations predict exact outcomes.'
Answer: Correct: 'Simulations predict likely outcomes.'. Simulations show probabilities, not certainties.
Flashcard 20: What is a simulation in computer science?
Answer: A model that mimics real-world processes. Uses computational models to replicate real phenomena.
Flashcard 21: Identify a key purpose of simulations.
Answer: To predict outcomes of real-world scenarios. Enables testing scenarios without real-world risks.
Flashcard 22: Which term describes a repeated simulation process?
Answer: Iteration. Repeated execution improves accuracy and reliability.
Flashcard 23: What is Monte Carlo simulation?
Answer: A method using random sampling for predictions. Named after Monte Carlo casino, emphasizes randomness.
Flashcard 24: State a benefit of using simulations.
Answer: Cost-effective risk assessment. Avoids expensive real-world testing and failures.
Flashcard 25: Which programming concept is often used in simulations?
Answer: Loops. Enables repetitive processes essential for modeling.
Flashcard 26: What is an agent-based simulation?
Answer: Models individual agents' interactions. Each agent follows rules, creating emergent behavior.
Flashcard 27: Identify a limitation of simulations.
Answer: May not capture all real-world variables. Simplification means missing important factors.
Flashcard 28: What is the role of randomness in simulations?
Answer: Introduces variability and uncertainty. Mimics real-world unpredictability and chance events.
Flashcard 29: Define 'discrete event simulation'.
Answer: Focuses on events at discrete time points. Events occur at specific moments, not continuously.
Flashcard 30: What is a continuous simulation?
Answer: Models systems with continuous changes over time. Uses differential equations for smooth transitions.