Computer Modelling (Cambridge International IGCSE ICT)
Exam board Cambridge International · IGCSEUpdated 2024-05-08
Spec point —
6.2.1
Computer Modelling
What is computer modelling?
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Computer modelling is using a computer to simulate a real-life system in order to be able to study the behaviour in different scenarios
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The simulation uses a model to help predict how the system will work in unusual circumstances
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Examples of modelling application include:
- Personal finance
- Bridge and building design
- Flood water management
- Traffic management
- Weather forecasting
Advantages and disadvantages of computer modelling
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| - Cheaper than having to build the real thing - Easier to try out a range of different scenarios - Safer, can simulate hazardous environments e.g. power station - Faster, can speed up variables that would impact on results e.g. climate change - Testing can be done before real-life construction begins | - A computer model will never be 100% accurate - Results are only as good as the model designed and data entered - Possibility of human error in the design could skew results |
Modelling applications
| Application | Description |
|---|---|
| Personal finance | - Use of a spreadsheet to test 'what if' scenarios - Using spreadsheet functionality to change values and see what impact is made e.g. the financial impact on a family if household income was to go down |
| Bridge and building design | - Architects will use 3D computer models of bridges and buildings so that a number of scenarios can be tested - In bridge design: - How much traffic can the bridge take - The effects of natural vibrations - The effects of different weather conditions - What impact on structural integrity would an accident cause - In building design: - The effects of different weather conditions - Simulating fire evacuation protocols - What impact on structural integrity would a fire cause |
| Flood water management | - Computer models allow risk assessments to be made of high risk flooding areas - Using models and changing variables allows for the design of automated flood defence systems - Variables would include: - different rivers and sea inlets - time of the day - previous flood behaviours - possible obstructions etc. - An automated system allows for: - Real-time monitoring - Data collection - Faster response to changing conditions e.g. advance warning to people |
| Traffic management | - Computer models allow users to see the effect of traffic and accidents on major road networks - The data collected can be used to optimise the traffic light times at different junctions - Data collected could include: - Time of day - Number of vehicles passing the junction from all directions - Factors that effect the flow of traffic e.g. pedestrians crossing, accidents etc. - After successful modelling has been completed, optimised systems can be built and installed |
| Weather forecasting | - Sensors are used collect data and sent to a central computer - Data collected could include: - Air pressure - Wind speed - Air temperature - Humidity - The computer model can then be used to predict weather patterns for the next few days - Actual weather is compared to the modelled data to check for accuracy and identify any areas in the model to modify |
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