Final answer:
A scientist might use a physical model of a bacterial cell instead of studying the cell directly for several reasons, including simplifying the study, enabling manipulation, and providing insights.
Step-by-step explanation:
A scientist might use a physical model of a bacterial cell instead of studying the cell directly for several reasons. Firstly, biological systems are complex and a physical model can simplify the study of the cell by focusing on specific phenomena that can be treated in a more manageable way. Secondly, a physical model allows scientists to manipulate and observe the cell in ways that may not be possible with the actual cell. Lastly, physical models can provide insights and predictions about the cell's behavior and interactions with its surroundings.