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A heuristic device for solving theoretically intractable mathematical and statistical problems. Simulation is used either to model a \'real world\' process or to create an empirical frequency distribution on which a significance test may be based.
Many simulation models use what are known as Monte Carlo procedures, involving the drawing of random numbers, as in Hägerstrand\'s work on the diffusion of innovations, which used an empirically observed mean information field as the framework allocating the random numbers. (See also microsimulation; stochastic process.)
Other simulation methods include the construction of analogue models, as in the Varignon frame used in the Weber model for investigating industrial location problems. (RJJ)
Suggested Reading Board, C. 1967: Maps as models. In R.J. Chorley and P. Haggett, eds, Models in geography. London and New York: Methuen, 671-726. Morgan, M.A. 1967: Hardware models in geography. In R.J. Chorley and P. Haggett, eds, Models in geography. London and New York: Methuen, 727-74. |
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