Predictive power: A scientific model should be able to predict. Scientific theories often make predictions about physical phenomena. These forecasts are based on the information that the model provides. Scientific models are most valuable when they can predict unexpected phenomena or make precise forecasts for phenomena whose characteristics are already known.

Empirical testability: A scientific model must be testable through experimentation or observational verification. This means that the predictions made by the model can be tested and either supported or refuted. Through careful verification and repeated experimentation, valid models are distinguished from invalid models.