Page 503 - Canadian BC Science 9

Science Skill 8
Using Models in Science
When you think of a model, you might think of a toy such as a model airplane. Is a model airplane similar to a scientific model? If building a model airplane helps you learn about flight, then you could say it is a scientific model.
In science, a model is anything that helps you better understand a scientific concept. A model can be a picture, a mental image, a structure, or even a mathematical formula. Sometimes, you need a model because the objects you are studying are too small to see with the unaided eye. You may have learned about the particle model of matter, for example, which is a model that states that all matter is made of tiny, invisible particles. Sometimes a model is useful because the objects you are studying are extremely large— the planets in our solar system, for example. In other cases, the object may be hidden from view, like the interior of Earth or the inside of a living organism. A mathematical model can show you how to perform a calculation.
Scientists often use models to communicate their ideas to other scientists or to students. They also use models to test an idea, to find out if an hypothesis is supported, and to plan new experiments in order to learn more about the subject they are studying. Sometimes, scientists discover so much new information that they have to modify their models. Examine the models in the illustrations on this page. How can these models help you learn about science?
You can learn about day and night by using a globe and a flashlight to model Earth and the Sun.
The particles shown here are models representing the atoms and molecules of a gas.
Instant Practice—Using Models
Models are used outside of the science laboratory as well as inside of it. How does using models help each of the following professions in their work?
(a) architects
(b) aviation engineers (c) theatre directors (d) geographers
(e) landscape designers
Science Skill 8 • MHR 485