Models and simulations
Answers are for parents and teachers.
1
Classify each model as static or dynamic, and as deterministic or probabilistic: (a) a recipe for 6 people, (b) the water level in a tank filled at a steady rate, (c) predicting tomorrow’s rain.
(a) static, deterministic; (b) dynamic, deterministic; (c) dynamic, probabilistic.
2
Compound interest: 2,000 pounds, 10% a year. How much after 3 years?
2,000 × 1.1 × 1.1 × 1.1 = 2,662 pounds.
3
How many of the 36 pairs of two dice have the sum 5? What is the chance?
4 pairs (1+4, 2+3, 3+2, 4+1), so 4/36 = 1/9.
4
Two customers: A arrives at 0 and needs 4 minutes; B arrives at 1 and needs 2 minutes. With one counter, how long does B wait? With two counters?
One counter: B starts at 4, waits 3 minutes. Two counters: B starts at 1, waits 0.