Anything that partially represents something else is known as a model or representation, which are tools used in science to simplify and explain complex systems.
Anything that provides a partial representation of something else is typically referred to as a model or representation. In scientific terms, both representations and models are crucial to understanding and explaining natural or man-made phenomena and systems. Representations are often used to simplify complex systems, making them easier to analyze and understand. Examples of scientific representations include diagrams, physical replicas, mathematical descriptions, and simulations. In education, especially within sciences, a key part of the learning process is for students to be able to re-express key elements of natural phenomena across multiple representations to deepen their understanding of the concepts involved.