Models can be used to represent a process or show the composition of a material. For example, a model of an atom shows what matter is made out of and how it is composed. Scientists have been using models since ancient times to help explain the world around us. Models help you understand something that you cannot see or touch by making it visible or giving it a form that you can physically explore. In this case, the model lets scientists explore atoms without having to use an electron microscope. This method provides them with up-close images from different angles so they can learn about their properties in detail.