MTHED 210: Problem Solving, Mathematical Investigation and Modeling 1
Name: Kyla Marie T. Carbaquil Course, Year & Section: BSEd Math 3A
Mathematical Modeling
➔ Mathematical modeling is described as illustrating real-life problems in
mathematical terms and expressions. It is usually simplified in the form of
equations. Furthermore, we could easily identify answers to those problems by
utilizing such equations. It will also help us discover a whole new variety of
features concerning the problems.
➔ Mathematical modeling is an attempt to study some part of real-world problems
in mathematical terms i.e., the conversion of physical situation into mathematics
using suitable conditions.
➔ Mathematical modeling seeks to gain an understanding of science through the
use of mathematical models.
Types of Mathematical Models
1. Static vs. Dynamic:
Another name for the static model is the steady-state model. This model helps
calculate the system in equilibrium. Therefore, it is time-invariant. In contrast,
dynamic models are mainly used for time-dependent changes in a system. Hence,
their representation is by difference equations or differential equations.
• Static (Steady-State): These models deal with situations that don't change
over time. Think of it like a parked car—everything stays the same. For
example, calculating the weight a bridge can hold when it’s not moving
involves a static model.
• Dynamic: These models focus on systems that change with time. Imagine
watching a car as it accelerates. Its speed and position change, so we use
dynamic models to describe those changes using equations like speed =
distance/time.
2. Linear vs. Nonlinear
Linear mathematical modeling is obtained when all the operators exhibit linearity. On
the contrary, it is considered a nonlinear model when an object does not exhibit
linearity. The descriptions of linearity and nonlinearity are mainly based on context.
A linear object might have some nonlinear expressions in it.
For instance, take a linear statistical model. Its relationship is linear in some of the
parameters. However, it is nonlinear in the predictor variables. Likewise, a differential
equation contains nonlinear expressions in it. But it tends to be linear while writing
with linear differential operators.
A mathematical programming model is considered linear if the constraints and
objective functions are described fully by linear equations. The model is regarded as
a nonlinear one if there are many constraints and objective functions described with
a nonlinear equation.
• Linear: These models involve straight-line relationships. For instance, if you
earn $10 per hour, your earnings are a simple multiplication of hours worked
(e.g., 2 hours = $20, 3 hours = $30). Linear models are predictable and easy
to calculate.
• Nonlinear: These models are more complex, involving curves or irregular
patterns. For example, how fast a car accelerates might not be constant;
instead, it depends on things like engine power and air resistance, which
makes the relationship nonlinear.
3. Explicit vs. Implicit
The model is considered explicit if the overall model’s input models are known. One
can calculate output parameters in an explicit function by a finite computation series.
In contrast, it is called an implicit model if outputs are already shown. Two examples
of implicit functions are Broyden’s method and Newton’s method.
Let us look at an example to understand these models properly. Consider the
physical properties of a jet engine. Nozzle throat and turbine areas are explicitly
calculated using a design thermodynamic cycle, which uses area model math for
derivation. It involves data regarding temperatures, pressures, and fuel and airflow
rates. It is only calculated at a specific power setting and flight conditions. But for
other flight conditions, it may not be possible to calculate explicitly. In such cases,
we use implicit models.
4. Deterministic vs. Probabilistic (or stochastic)
Parameters in a deterministic model separately define all the variable states. It
involves a collection of previous states of these variables. So, it is common for this
model to perform the same way for initial conditions.
In the probabilistic model, randomness is present. Variable states are not determined
using unique values. Instead, they are done by probability distributions. Other
names of this model are the statistical model and the stochastic model.
• Deterministic: These models give the same outcome every time if the starting
conditions are the same. For instance, calculating how long it takes a train to
travel a certain distance at a constant speed is deterministic.
• Probabilistic: These models include randomness or uncertainty. For example,
predicting how many people might be late to school involves probability since
things like traffic or weather can vary.
5. Discrete vs. Continuous
In discrete models, objects are treated as discrete, namely states in a statistical
model or particles in a molecular model.
In continuous models, objects are represented continuously. For example, stresses
and temperatures in solids and the application of electric fields over an entire model
continuously are some of them.
• Discrete: These models focus on distinct, separate items. Imagine counting
the number of students in a class; you can only have whole numbers.
• Continuous: These models deal with things that can take any value within a
range, like measuring water temperature, which could be 24.5°C or 24.567°C.
6. Deductive, Indicative, or Floating
Deductive models are usually logical structures. They are based on a theory.
Indicative models come from empirical findings of deductive models. On the other
hand, floating models rest on neither observation nor theory. They are purely based
on the invocation of the expected structure.
• Deductive: Based on logical reasoning and existing theories. For example,
using Newton’s laws to predict how a ball will fall under gravity.
• Indicative: Derived from observations or experiments. If you notice that
plants grow faster in sunlight, this observation could lead to an indicative
model.
• Floating: These are hypothetical and not based on specific evidence or theory.
It’s like guessing how a new type of plant might grow without prior data.
7. Qualitative vs. Quantitative
A qualitative mathematical model describes a system or situation in broad,
conceptual terms without focusing on specific numerical values. It emphasizes
relationships, patterns, or trends rather than precise measurements.
A quantitative mathematical model describes a system or situation using numerical
values and mathematical equations to predict or analyze outcomes. It relies on
measurable data and provides specific, precise results.
References:
"Introduction to Mathematical Modeling Part 1." YouTube video.
https://youtu.be/uZEDdq-Nh7U.
"Mathematical Modeling: Definition, Classifications, Applications."
https://www.turito.com/learn/math/mathematical-modeling.
