When setting up a simulation, what aspect does the Global element size parameter specifically depend upon?

The Global element size parameter in a simulation is directly related to the surface area of the model. This parameter determines the mesh density of the model, which is crucial for achieving accurate results during simulations. A larger surface area typically requires a finer mesh to capture the details and variations in the geometry effectively, allowing for a more precise representation of the physical behavior of the model under various conditions.

By specifying the element size based on the surface area, you ensure that the mesh is optimized for the scale and complexity of the model. This is critical as it balances the need for computational efficiency with the necessity for accuracy in the results produced by the simulation. A well-defined element size helps in avoiding errors that might arise from a mesh that is too coarse to capture important features or too fine, leading to unnecessarily long computation times.