A
mathematical model is a description of a
system using
mathematical concepts and language. The process of developing a mathematical model is termed
mathematical modeling. Mathematical models are used in the
natural sciences (such as
physics,
biology,
earth science,
meteorology) and
engineering disciplines (such as
computer science,
artificial intelligence), as well as in the
social sciences (such as
economics,
psychology,
sociology,
political science).
Physicists,
engineers,
statisticians,
operations research analysts, and
economists use mathematical models most extensively. A model may help to explain a system and to study the effects of different components, and to make predictions about behaviour.