What is meant by 'affine' model in physical sciences?

Affine transform" refers to a mathematical concept used to map or transform one set of points to another set while preserving parallel lines. It is commonly used in physical sciences to compare ideal and real models.
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feynman1
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What's meant by 'affine' model in physical sciences? I guess it's related to some ideal or benchmark model?
 
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A ideal model is compared with a real example.
The connection or mapping between the two is an 'affine transform'.
An affine transform preserves parallel lines.
I guess the model of the ideal could be called an 'affine model'.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Affine_transformation
 
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  • #3
Baluncore said:
A ideal model is compared with a real example.
The connection or mapping between the two is an 'affine transform'.
An affine transform preserves parallel lines.
I guess the model of the ideal could be called an 'affine model'.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Affine_transformation
affine transform has nothing to do with affine model?
 
  • #4
feynman1 said:
affine transform has nothing to do with affine model?
There seems to be no such thing as an "affine model".

"Affine model" appears to be a conflation of the terms "affine" transform and the transformed ideal "model". That might be used to refer to a model that is subjected to an affine transform.
 
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FAQ: What is meant by 'affine' model in physical sciences?

What does the term 'affine' mean in the context of physical sciences?

The term 'affine' refers to a mathematical model that represents a linear relationship between two or more variables. In this context, it is used to describe a model that assumes a proportional relationship between the variables being studied.

How is an affine model different from other mathematical models?

An affine model differs from other mathematical models, such as exponential or logarithmic models, in that it assumes a linear relationship between the variables being studied. This means that as one variable changes, the other variable changes in a constant and predictable manner.

What are some examples of physical phenomena that can be described by an affine model?

An affine model can be used to describe a wide range of physical phenomena, such as the relationship between force and displacement in a spring, the relationship between temperature and volume in a gas, or the relationship between velocity and time in a moving object.

How is an affine model used in scientific research?

An affine model is commonly used in scientific research as a simplification of more complex relationships between variables. It allows scientists to make predictions and draw conclusions based on a linear relationship, which can be easier to analyze and interpret than other types of relationships.

What are the limitations of an affine model in physical sciences?

While an affine model can be useful in many cases, it does have limitations. It assumes a constant and linear relationship between variables, which may not always accurately reflect real-world phenomena. It also cannot account for non-linear relationships or other factors that may affect the variables being studied.

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