Simulaation

Simulaation is the Finnish term for the practice of simulation, referring to the construction and use of models to study the behavior of real-world systems under varying conditions. The noun simulaatio denotes the simulation itself, while simulaation is the genitive form used in phrases like simulaation tulokset (the results of the simulation).

In practice, simulaation involves model building, parameter selection, verification and validation, and the execution of experiments with a simulator. It encompasses computer simulations, physical models, and mathematical representations, and it is used across science, engineering, economics, education, and industry to test hypotheses, compare alternatives, and forecast outcomes.

Common methods include discrete-event simulation, continuous simulation, Monte Carlo simulation, and agent-based modeling. The choice of method depends on the nature of the system and the questions asked, and results are typically analyzed for uncertainty and sensitivity.

Historical notes: The modern practice of simulation grew with the use of programmable computers in the mid-20th century. The programming language SIMULA, developed in the 1960s, was named after simulation and is regarded as an influential precursor of object-oriented programming.

See also: Simulation, Modeling, Discrete-event simulation, Agent-based modeling.