Which term refers to a digital representation of a physical object or system?

The term "Digital Twin" refers to a digital representation of a physical object or system, making it the most accurate choice in this context. A Digital Twin serves as a virtual counterpart to its physical counterpart, integrating real-time data and enabling analysis, monitoring, and optimization of systems. This concept is widely used in fields such as manufacturing, healthcare, and smart cities, where it allows for predictive maintenance, performance improvement, and enhanced decision-making through simulations and data analytics.

The other terms mentioned do not fully encapsulate the definition of a Digital Twin. A "Virtual Model" generally refers to any digital portrayal of an item that may not necessarily include real-time data input or feedback mechanisms associated with its physical counterpart. "Digital Replica" suggests a similar idea but lacks the interaction and dynamic characteristics that differentiate a Digital Twin. "System Simulation" pertains to modeling the behavior of a system over time, often through theoretical scenarios, but does not imply a continuous connection to a physical object, as a Digital Twin does.