Computerised simulations and models of the Earth’s geological history

Question 1

What are computer simulations?

Answer 1

Computer simulations require the use of mathematical equations in models that assist in representing a particular phenomenon. Scientists can change equations to observe changes and predict the behaviour of a pattern.

Question 2

What did scientists find by using computer simulations?

Answer 2

• what early earth looked like
• Origin and bow shaped mountain belts that form along the boundaries of tectonic plates
• Changes to australian plates over time
• Digital reconstruction of earth’s history

Question 3

How has computer simulations helped us?

Answer 3

• Understanding of how plates move over time
• Understanding of early earth and climate change throughout the course of history
• allows us to predict future geological events such as tsunamis, and earthquakes in which we can prepare (warning systems)
• locate sources on the earths crust to reconstruct past events