Computer Modeling
Playing the "What if?" Game
Scientists use computer models to help understand and predict how convection works under different circumstances. The model consists of equations that describe how a fluid moves. These equations describe properties of the fluid and how it's being heated. For example, the a thick fluid will move differently than a thin fluid, even when they're heated the same way. Computer models allow scientist to change the properties of a fluid and see how it reacts differently. Scientists can play a "what if?" game, determining how the convection currents will change when the fluid or conditions change.