APCSP Simulation Models 4

Question 1

A simulation models traffic flow by treating each car as an independent agent following simple rules. This approach is known as:

Accepted Answer

Agent-based modeling

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Regression modeling

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Recursive simulation

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Static data modeling

Question 2

A Monte Carlo simulation is used to estimate the area of an irregular shape. Which technique does it rely on?

Accepted Answer

Generating random points and checking which fall inside the shape

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Dividing the shape into triangles and summing their areas

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Using calculus to compute the definite integral of the boundary

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Tracing the boundary with a robotic arm to measure length

Question 3

A simulation that always produces the same output given the same inputs is called:

Accepted Answer

Deterministic

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Stochastic

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Probabilistic

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Iterative

Question 4

When validating a simulation model, a researcher compares its outputs to historical real-world data. This process is called:

Accepted Answer

Validation

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Calibration

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Debugging

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Compilation

Question 5

A student increases the number of particles in a physics simulation from 100 to 10,000. What is the most likely trade-off?

Accepted Answer

More particles increases accuracy but requires more computation time

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More particles makes the simulation less accurate but faster

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More particles eliminates all randomness from the model

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More particles reduces the memory needed to store results

Question 6

In a simulation, a programmer hard-codes that 'all users check social media exactly 5 times per day.' What problem does this introduce?

Accepted Answer

The model oversimplifies real behavior and may produce inaccurate results

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The simulation will crash immediately

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The simulation will run faster than necessary

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The model will automatically add randomness to compensate

Question 7

A simulation of a nuclear reactor is used to train operators before they work on a real reactor. Which benefit of simulations does this BEST illustrate?

Accepted Answer

Simulations allow safe practice of scenarios that would be dangerous in reality

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Simulations are always faster than real-world training

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Simulations are cheaper to build than physical training models

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Simulations guarantee the operator will make no mistakes