ISP 203A Scientific Models

Scientific uncertainties….

Typically a numerical range

ex: The maximum temperature today in Lansing will be between 60ºF and
64ºF.

What are scientific models used for?

To represent aspects of the natural world that are too small, large, complex, or difficult to observe or explain directly.

List key features of scientific models.

Illustrate key features, aid understanding, can be used to make hypotheses, may not represent all parts of a system, can be overly simplistic.

What are the main types of scientific models?

Verbal descriptions, mathematical models, diagrams, graphs, physical models, animations.

Give an example of a diagram model.

A food web with animals, connecting lines, and colors.

Give an example of a mathematical model.

The photosynthetic equation or a linear regression equation.

Which energy source in Michigan has increased the most since 2002?

Natural Gas (from the activity).

What is an anomaly in science?

Something that deviates from normal; often used in climate data to show deviation from a baseline.