What are the three advantages of using conceptual models?

The conceptual model provides a concept of how the components of an atom are arranged, implying a similarity of the forces acting between those components.

It is important to note that the conceptual model is not necessarily correct or accurate. It simply provides a model which forms the basis for the discussion of the concepts involved.

Science is all about the discussion -- with the expressed aim of improving the conceptual model to the point that it is self-consistent and consistent with the existing body of accepted knowledge. [The hardest part is knowing when and how to question the body of accepted knowledge.]