| Date | November 2017 | Marks available | 4 | Reference code | 17N.2.SL.TZ0.4 |
| Level | SL | Paper | 2 | Time zone | no time zone |
| Command term | Distinguish | Question number | 4 | Adapted from | N/A |
Question
Computer simulations are often used in situations where practical experimentation is, for some reason, not possible. One of these reasons could be an ethical issue.
Distinguish between a computer model and a computer simulation.
Identify two reasons why some systems are difficult to model successfully.
With clear reference to the ethical issue, describe one example where practical experimentation would not be possible for ethical reasons.
State three other advantages, apart from ethical reasons, of simulating a computer model rather than constructing a physical one.
Markscheme
Award up to [4 max].
A computer model is a representation of a system;
Made up of variables and formulae/mathematical representation;
Whereas a computer simulation is a process that uses the model;
In order to see the outcome(s) when different values are used for the variables (in the model);
Either all of the variables are not known/difficult to define;
Or the relationships between them cannot be expressed accurately/mathematically;
Example
Experiments on living animals in a high school science class;
Such as effects of altering diet;
It is not ethically acceptable to harm animals (for such purposes);
Note: Accept reasonable examples, provided they are sufficiently explained.
Award up to [3 max].
Computer models/simulations allow the designers to:
Make alterations and quickly see the outcomes;
Repeat tests several times over;
Model dangerous situations safely;
Learn from “what if?” scenarios;
Saves costs if several different models have to be built;
