Models and theories both are factors one comes through with providing a study on a particular topic. Both of them are produced at different stages of the study.
Key Takeaways
- Models are simplified representations or simulations of complex systems used to make predictions or gain insight into the system’s functions.
- Theories are broader explanations of natural phenomena or social behaviour, supported by empirical evidence and tested through experiments or observation.
- Models are typically based on specific assumptions and may not capture the full complexity of a system, while theories provide a more comprehensive understanding of a phenomenon.
Models vs Theories
The difference between models and theories is that models can be considered as a representing element created to explain a theory or a concept whereas theory is considered as an answer or solution to problems by proving them with the help of facts and figures. Models provide the macro level of guidance whereas theories provide a micro-level of guidance regarding a particular phenomenon.
Want to save this article for later? Click the heart in the bottom right corner to save to your own articles box!
Model is a physical, symbolic, visual, mathematical, or graphical representation of a concept or a theory that has been founded to clarify or make it simpler to understand.
heory on the other hand is a conceptualized framework that is proven by facts and logic, by scientists.
Comparison Table
| Parameter of Comparison | Models | Theories |
|---|---|---|
| Concept | Models are a visual or verbal representation of theories | Theories are a conceptual framework of ideas |
| Nature | It simplifies a theory or concept | It explains or predicts phenomena |
| Work | Its work is to simplify a concept | Its work is to explain a concept with facts and logics |
| Base | They are based on theories or concepts | They are based on scientific logic or facts |
| Use | Used for verifying theories | Used for proving points |
| Guidance | Provides macro-level guidance | Provides micro-level guidance |
What are Models?
Model is a physical, verbal, mathematical, or graphical representation f a concept or an idea. Models are developed based on a theory.
On a few occasions models are also seen s an application of theory, it consists of boundary conditions of an singular particular group as it serves projections on the particularly related theory.
There are 4 types of models that created easier to understand and reference such as- the conceptual model, interactive lecture demonstration, mathematical and statistical mode, and teaching with visualizations.
What are Theories?
The theory is generalized thinking or raising aconclusion regarding phenomena which is a part of an analysis. A theory is mostly used by scientists to prove a particular point with the help of scientific evidence, explanation, and facts.
Theories also allow scientists to predictbased on they see and their knowledge and understanding regarding the phenomena. A theory is a body of knowledge that might or might not be supported y explanatory modules
The theory is a tool for understanding and explaining complex concepts. Theories get improved as eventually more facts and evidence are provided, with increasing accuracy to support the scientific theory.
Main Differences Between Models and Theories
- Models are a visual and verbal representation of theories or concepts whereas theories are conceptual framework ideas on a phenomenon.
- Models simplify a theory or concept for better understanding whereas theories explain or predict a phenomenon with their knowledge and understanding regarding the phenomena.
- https://seop.illc.uva.nl/entries/models-science/
- https://books.google.com/books?hl=en&lr=&id=mdwt7ibSGUYC&oi=fnd&pg=PP14&dq=models&ots=fzKqJ0QS0Y&sig=Q7h04YZ-jzy_ixZQ5PSYfYV8S4Q
- https://library.mpib-berlin.mpg.de/toc/z2008_2104.pdf
- https://pdfs.semanticscholar.org/33a2/4a5e431d7bdbdda2f7838eca0e00a604b14d.pdf
I’ve put so much effort writing this blog post to provide value to you. It’ll be very helpful for me, if you consider sharing it on social media or with your friends/family. SHARING IS ♥️
Piyush Yadav has spent the past 25 years working as a physicist in the local community. He is a physicist passionate about making science more accessible to our readers. He holds a BSc in Natural Sciences and Post Graduate Diploma in Environmental Science. You can read more about him on his bio page.
