Modeling is the process of creating a representation of something. In the sciences, modeling is used to understand and predict the behavior of complex systems. Models can be mathematical, physical, or conceptual.
Mathematical models use mathematics to describe phenomena. Physical models are built from materials that represent some aspect of the phenomenon being studied. Conceptual models are mental representations of phenomena.
Models are often created for simulations, which are used to study how a system behaves over time. Simulations allow scientists to test hypotheses and make predictions about real-world systems.
Computer models are increasingly important in the sciences as more data becomes available and computers become more powerful. Models can be used to analyze data, simulate experiments, and make predictions about future events.