Scientists use mathematical models in science to help explain and predict fundamental aspects of the real world.  Mathematical models are a fundamentally important tool for scientists because it allows them to explore concepts in a virtual world in order to build intuition, make connections, and make predictions about the natural world and how it will respond to changing conditions.  Models allow scientists to test scenarios and peer into places or times that are not possible due to logistical constraints and to develop hypotheses that can be tested experimentally.  In this video, we explore the critical importance of mathematical models to the scientific process.