Scale: Scale refers to the size or level at which something is studied. It can range from local (neighborhood) to global (entire world), influencing how accurately a model represents reality.
Spatial Patterns: Spatial patterns refer to the arrangement and distribution of things on Earth's surface. Models help identify and explain why social, economic, or political processes occur in specific spatial patterns.
Variables: Variables are factors that vary in value and can influence outcomes. In models, variables are used to represent different elements contributing to social, economic, or political processes.