Modelling applications: Practice Questions

Which of the following is a primary reason why a computer model would be used to simulate the structural integrity of a new bridge design instead of building a physical prototype?

When city planners use a computer model for traffic management, what is the primary benefit of running a 'what-if' simulation?

Which of these is a valid application of computer modelling mentioned in the IGCSE ICT syllabus?

Which of the following is a disadvantage of using a computer model rather than a human for weather forecasting?

In the context of Modelling applications, which area would specifically use a spreadsheet to predict future financial trends based on different interest rates?

Identify one example of an application where computer modelling is commonly used to predict future environmental conditions.

Explain one advantage and one disadvantage of using computer modelling for personal finance management instead of manual calculations.

State one reason why a civil engineer would use computer modelling rather than building a physical scale model when designing a bridge.

A city council is considering using a computer model to manage traffic flow in a busy city centre. The model simulates the effects of changing traffic light timings and adding new cycle lanes.

(a) Describe two advantages of using a computer model for this purpose rather than testing the changes on the real roads.
(b) State one disadvantage of using a computer model in this context.

A national weather agency uses complex computer models to predict the path and intensity of hurricanes. The model uses data from satellites and ground sensors to perform simulations.

(a) Explain why a computer model is required for weather forecasting instead of humans performing the calculations manually.
(b) The agency uses the model to run "what-if" scenarios. Explain what is meant by a "what-if" scenario in the context of modelling and give an example related to weather forecasting.