Unit 1.3 Environmental Models & Systems Thinking

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Model

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A simplified representation of a real-world system used to explain, predict, or understand how something works.

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Physical Model

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A tangible, three-dimensional representation of an object or system (e.g., a scale model of a watershed).

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Conceptual Model

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A visual or written explanation of how parts of a system interact (e.g., food webs, diagrams of cycles).

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Mathematical Model

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A model that uses equations or data to describe relationships in a system (e.g., population growth formulas).

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Computer Model

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A simulation created using software to mimic real-world processes (e.g., climate change or pollution models).

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Environmental System

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A set of interacting components in the natural world, such as ecosystems, watersheds, or the atmosphere.

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Strengths of a Model

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The parts of a model that accurately represent or help explain aspects of the real system.

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Limitations of a Model

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The aspects a model fails to include or oversimplifies; what it cannot do.

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Assumptions

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Conditions accepted as true in a model, even if they may not be accurate in all situations.

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Accuracy

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How closely a model’s predictions or representations match real-world data.