computer simulations
Virtual reality tests
Computer simulations are digital models that imitate real-world processes or systems.
Scientists use them to study phenomena too dangerous, expensive, or time-consuming to observe directly: climate simulations, flight simulations, nuclear test simulations.
In gaming and training, simulations create immersive environments that approximate reality.
The singular refers to a specific model or instance: We ran a computer simulation of the earthquake.
Simulating or demonstrating form
- algorithmFinite problem-solving procedure
- Monte CarloProbability estimation through randomness
- climate modelingSimulating long-term atmospheric behavior
- supercomputerUltra-powerful computing system
parallel processing · bioinformatics · genomics · fluid dynamics · protein folding · weather modeling
Confirming truth or accuracy
- parametersDefined boundaries or constraints
- optimizationMaximizing efficiency or performance
- debuggingError removal from programs
- softwarePrograms directing computer operations
accuracy · benchmarking · scalability · visualization · data · coding · programming · runtime
Estimating future conditions
- scenarioPostulated event sequence
- projectionSomething that extends outward
- extrapolationExtending data beyond bounds
- estimationApproximate value judgment
probability · trend analysis · risk assessment · planning · stress testing
Computer-created interactive environment
- sandboxEnclosed play area
- multiplayerInvolving multiple participants
- physics engineSoftware modeling real-world motion
- game engineFramework for building interactive software
procedural generation · ragdoll physics · collision detection · flight simulator · racing simulator
modeling
Simulating or demonstrating form
- algorithmFinite problem-solving procedure
- Monte CarloProbability estimation through randomness
- climate modelingSimulating long-term atmospheric behavior
supercomputer · parallel processing · bioinformatics · genomics · fluid dynamics · protein folding · weather modeling
validation
Confirming truth or accuracy
- parametersDefined boundaries or constraints
- optimizationMaximizing efficiency or performance
- debuggingError removal from programs
software · accuracy · benchmarking · scalability · visualization · data · coding · programming · runtime · iteration
forecasting
Estimating future conditions
- scenarioPostulated event sequence
- projectionSomething that extends outward
- extrapolationExtending data beyond bounds
estimation · probability · trend analysis · risk assessment · planning · stress testing
virtual reality
Computer-created interactive environment
- sandboxEnclosed play area
- multiplayerInvolving multiple participants
- physics engineSoftware modeling real-world motion
game engine · procedural generation · ragdoll physics · collision detection · flight simulator · racing simulator
- brain researchfMRI, EEG, neurons, brain imaging, brain scans
computer simulationslaboratory experiments
Controlled scientific investigations indoors
field experiments · clinical trials · field trials · animal testing
computer simulationsphysical reality
The material universe
the real thing · reality · lived experience · natural processes · direct experience
computer simulationsdirect observation
Watching something personally occur
empirical observation · field observation · eyewitness accounts · intuition · trial and error
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