Variables required to model a given system

Modeling & Simulation

In an examination students will not be expected to identify more than four variables in a given system.

Let's answer this question by looking at a few different systems and imagining which variables might be the most impactful.

a sports player

If I wanted to create a model of a sports player what variables might I choose? I want to choose a variables that are meaningful. Maybe:

1. number of injuries
2. age
3. number of points scored
4. number of games won
5. number of games lost

I think these variables MIGHT help me model a sports figure.

a country

Maybe I wanted to create a model of a country. The variables I choose might be related to what I want to do with my model.

1. percentage of population with electricity access
2. electricity - consumption
3. electricity - exports
4. electricity - imports

These variable are used from the CIA world factbook with gratitude. I wonder why they create models of EVERY COUNTRY ON EARTH?

a car

I wonder how these variables might inform my choices about buying a car:

1. total cost
2. monthly average gasoline cost
3. monthly repair cost
4. monthly resale value

Standards

• Identify the variables required to model a given system.

Provide an answer from a number of possibilities. Recognize and state briefly a distinguishing fact or feature.

A unit of abstract mathematical system subject to the laws of arithmetic.

Provide an answer from a number of possibilities. Recognize and state briefly a distinguishing fact or feature.