Modeling

Modeling: The use of one thing (the model) in place of something else that is more difficult or impossible to experiment with. In addition to real-world models, such as miniature airplanes and houses, a set of mathematical equations can be used to represent a complex system. The model can then be put into a computer and used to simulate the behavior of the system under a variety of conditions. For example, a model of the U.S. economy might show the possible effects of a 10 percent increase in taxes.