Sep 171 min read

What is computer modelling?

In this blog article, we talk about computer modelling, their advantages and disadvantages.

Computer modelling

Computer modelling is the use of computers to simulate a real system in order to study the behavior of the system.

The model is based on mathematical representations and computer model is used to predict future system behaviors under different scenarios.

Advantages

Disadvantages

Cheaper than having to build the real thing.
Easier to try out various scenarios in advance.
Models can simulate high risk or hazardous environments without risk of harm to humans, hence are safer. E.g., crash testing of cars, nuclear reactors, power stations etc.
Time scales are reduced by doing a computer model rather than the real thing. E.g., climate change calculations, population growth studies

A computer model will never be 100% accurate.
Possibility of human error in the model design could give incorrect or skewed results.
Output of a computer model is only as good as the design and the input data.

Please leave a comment below if you want to know more, you have any questions or suggestions.