ABSTRACT
A simulation is an imitation of some real thing, state of affairs, or process in action. The act of simulating something generally entails representing certain key characteristics or dynamic behaviors of a selected physical or abstract system. Simulation is used in many contexts, including the modeling of natural systems or human systems to gain insight into their functioning. Other contexts include simulation of technology for performance optimization, safety engineering, testing, training, and education. Simulation can also be used as a prediction tool to show the eventual real effects of alternative conditions and courses of action.
