ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses the history of photosynthetic modeling. Modeling need only be justified to nonmodelers, and much has been published with this intent. However, modelers strongly disagree on how to justify it to nonmodelers. Mathematical modeling aids conceptual modeling and is characteristically based upon nonmathematical assumptions or concepts. Computer simulation aids mathematical modeling and allows us to solve problems involving complex models. Computers have frequently been used in the application of probability theory to biological research problems. In any scientific discipline, progress can often be traced to a few innovative ideas that are frequently derived from similar innovations in other disciplines. The Monsi-Saeki model for light transmittance in a crop canopy, in combination with a leaf-photosynthesis model based upon light incident to leaves in the canopy, could be used without a computer. The chapter also presents some of the key concepts discussed in this book.
