%0 Journal Article
%T Biogeochemical Models in the Environmental Sciences. The Dynamical System Paradigm and the Role of Simulation Modeling
%A Daniel Haag
%A Martin Kaupenjohann
%J Hyle : International Journal for Philosophy of Chemistry
%D 2000
%I HYLE Publications, Karlsruhe and University of Karlsruhe
%X Dynamical systems are the paradigm for the representation of complex systems. The fixed encoding in a closed set of equations, however, contrasts with the openness of biogeochemical systems. Parameter identification is a major problem in biogeochemical systems and calibration of parameters converts models into 'fitting machines'. Openness, self-modification, and historicity of biogeochemical systems make non-trivial predictions of future outcomes impossible. Notwithstanding, simulation models serve as instruments of synthesis and have heuristic value to challenge existing data and theories. The modeling process itself, as a learning and communication process, can be a mode of coping with different types of complexity.
%K philosophy of chemistry
%K models in biogeochemistry
%K dynamical system
%K simulation model
%K self-modifying system
%K complexity
%U http://www.hyle.org/journal/issues/6/haag.pdf