Glossary
Abstraction
The process of simplifying complex details to focus on the essential aspects or main idea of a system or problem.
Example:
When you use a map, you're benefiting from abstraction because it removes unnecessary details like individual trees and buildings to show only roads and landmarks.
Bias (in simulations)
A systematic error or distortion in a simulation's results caused by the creator's choices about what to include or exclude, leading to an inaccurate representation.
Example:
A traffic simulation might have a bias if it only models rush hour traffic and doesn't account for lighter traffic periods, leading to an overestimation of congestion.
Oversimplification (in simulations)
When a simulation is made too simple, omitting crucial details that are necessary for an accurate or useful representation of the real-world system.
Example:
A simulation of a human heart might suffer from oversimplification if it only models blood flow and ignores the electrical impulses that regulate the heartbeat.
Random number generators
Algorithms or devices that produce a sequence of numbers that appear to be random, used in simulations to introduce variability and unpredictability.
Example:
In a game simulation of a dice roll, a random number generator would produce a number between 1 and 6 to mimic the unpredictable outcome.
Simulation
A simplified model of a complex real-world system or event, used to study its behavior without direct interaction.
Example:
A weather simulation might use temperature, pressure, and humidity data to predict if it will rain tomorrow.