What term describes a schematic description of a complex system based on experimental data?

The term that describes a schematic description of a complex system based on experimental data is a model. In the context of science, a model serves as a simplified representation of a system that captures the essential features and relationships within that system. Models are constructed using data gathered from experiments, allowing scientists to visualize and better understand the dynamics of complex systems.

Models play a crucial role in various fields, including chemistry, as they help formulate predictions, visualize interactions, and guide further experimentation. They can take many forms, such as physical models, mathematical formulas, or conceptual frameworks, all aimed at facilitating understanding and communication about the system in question.

In contrast, a theory is a well-substantiated explanation of some aspect of the natural world, composed of a body of evidence and hypotheses that have been repeatedly tested, rather than just a schematic representation. A hypothesis is a preliminary statement made to be tested, which has not yet been established as a widely accepted explanation. A framework generally refers to a broader structure or system of assumptions and principles that guide research and analysis rather than a specific depiction of data.