Past Paper Question (1 Viewer)

[ronnknee]

Benefits and Limitations of Scientific Models

Right now I'm practicing for Science by doing the past papers (and kinda learning at the same time).

I'm not sure of the answer for this simple question in 2005's one, question 66 c.

Scientists often use models such as these diagrams to describe scientific phenomena. Describe one benefit and one limitation.

One benefit would be that it's simple to understand, what's the limitation? I'm thinking of along the lines of that it's not realistic but ergh. Can someone help me express what I'm thinking or perhaps answer the question so I can learn from it? Lmao, thanks =)

 

[the leader]

Perhaps because they are too simple?

I think the Watson-Crick DNA model is seen as waay too simplified. So maybe it's just that they are good for simple problems but aren't sophisticated enough for solving actual problems...

 

[crammy90]

i was thinknig that the limitation could be that it doesnt show movement of the atoms and most importantly the electrons

 

[Harkaraj]

Model of the atom

Benefit: The model of the atom with electrons in energy levels around the nucleus allows us to explain and predict how chemical elements will interact with each other

Limitation: The model of an atom is much simpler than an atom is in reality, e.g. an atom has sub-atomic particles(e.g. quarks) that do not appear in the model

 

[chiselwick]

you could even say something as simple as "Electrons don't move in the paths of the circles which the diagrams suggest".

Or just say... "it is an inaccurate representatioin of the actual phenomena"