Question

Researchers use a computer model to simulate an oil spill

in the ocean. The model predicts which areas of the

shoreline will be most impacted by an oil spill if it occurs in

a certain area.

What are two limitiations of this model?

A. It does not predict a situation that might cause an oil spill to

happen.

B. It does not show how each species of wildlife would be affected

by the oil spill.

C. It cannot be used to evaluate how an oil spill might affect multiple

areas of shoreline.

D. It does not show how an oil spill might spread from one area to

another

Answer 1

Two limitations of a computer model simulating an oil spill are that it may not show how each species of wildlife is affected nor accurately predict oil dispersion from one area to another, due to the complex and dynamic nature of ecosystems.

Step-by-step explanation:

The limitations of a computer model simulating an oil spill in the ocean include, but are not limited to, a variety of factors. Two specific limitations that we can consider based on the information provided might be:

• B. It does not show how each species of wildlife would be affected by the oil spill. Simulation models, while sophisticated, might not account for individual species' responses to an oil spill, which can be highly variable and complex. This encompasses behavioral changes, physiological stress, and mortality rates among other factors.
• D. It does not show how an oil spill might spread from one area to another. While simulation models can predict the affected areas, the dynamic processes of how oil disperses through water currents, wind, and other environmental factors over time can be challenging to model with high accuracy.

These limitations highlight the complexity of ecosystem responses and the challenges in accurately simulating such environmental disturbances.