How does a model differ from a real object, process or phenomenon?

The difference between a model and a real object (prototype) is that the model reflects (contains) only the properties of the object under study that are necessary and appropriate for the purposes of the analysis. Depending on the properties included in the model, you can build multiple models for a single prototype object.

Object Earth – model map of the Earth, reflects the location of countries, cities, rivers and continents)

Object Earth – a model globe, reflects the shape of the planet and its rotation around its axis.

Object Earth – a model in the solar system characterizes the position of the planet in the Universe and its rotation around the Sun in its own orbit.