Question: Which of the following types of models could be used to represent a cell?

1. idea model

2. b. physical model

3. c. computer model

4. d. all of the above

5. Answer: d. all of the above

6. Question: Models need to be changed when _______.

7. a. they are based on experimental data

8. b. scientific understanding changes

9. c. they represent a phenomenon

10. d. they are designed to answer a question

11. Answer: b. scientific understanding changes

12. Question: Which of the following types of models is most likely to be used to predict earthquakes?

13. a. idea model

14. b. physical model

15. c. computer model

16. d. none of the above

17. Answer: c. computer model

18. Question: Explain why all models have limitations.

19. Answer: All models have limitations because they are not representative of every possible scenario. They use current knowledge and scientific data, but as those are subject to change, the models based off that knowledge and data are subject to change as well.

20. Question: List possible limitations to scientific models.

21. Answer: Scientific models are not a replacement for experimentation. They can be used in conjunction with experimentation to further understanding of a concept, event, or process. They are based on current scientific knowledge and may have to be changed when new discoveries are made.

22. Question: What are some possible uses for scientific models?

23. Answer: Student answers may vary. Possible answers include three-dimensional representations of microscopic objects, computer simulations of weather patterns, small-scale representations of rockets and airplanes, and graphs derived from collecting scientific data.

24. Question: Explain the purpose of scientific models.

25. Answer:

26. Question: Scientific models _______.

27. a. are based on a set of observations

28. b. are used to replace experiments

29. c. allow the study of existing systems only

30. d. are rarely used

31. Answer: a. are based on a set of observations

32. Question: Compare the idea, physical, and computer models.

33. Answer:

34. Question: A scientific model can be used to _______.

35. a. replace study of the actual system

36. b. better understand systems and processes

37. c. complicate ideas

38. d. all of the above

39. Answer: b. better understand systems and processes