When we create numerical models of a real-world system, we usually go through a few phases (from Abramowitz 2010):a perceptual model, where we consider the relevant components of the systema conceptual model, where we consider the relationships between those componentsa mathematical model, where we come up with equations and formulae to express the conceptual modela numerical model, that allows the computer to estimate the results of the mathematical model on a given spatiotemporal scaleDivide by zero errors are a pretty common cause of premature model death. Sometimes that's just due to poor programming. But if we exclude that possibility (assume a perfect programmer), is a divide by zero error an indication that the conceptual model is wrong? That is, is it reasonable to assume that the equivalent of a divide-by-zero error never happens in the real world? I guess that this question presupposes that mathematics is in some way real, comments on the relevance of that would also be appreciated.referencesAbramowitz, Gab 2010, Model Independence in Multi-Model Ensemble Prediction. Australian Meteorological and Oceanographic Journal 59: 36. http://citeseerx.ist.psu.edu/viewdoc/download?doi=10.1.1.222.5811&rep=rep1&type=pdf.
Is a divide by zero error an indication of a bad conceptual model?
numerical modelling;modeling;conceptual model