A first principle flotation model has been derived from the basic mechanisms involved in flotation. It consists of a set of analytical equations for various sub-processes such as bubble generation, bubble-particle collision, attachment, detachment, bubble coarsening, and froth phase recovery. A computer simulator based on the model can predict flotation from both hydrodynamic and surface chemistry parameters such as bubble size, particle size, energy dissipation rate, potentials, contact angles, etc. The model predictions are in good agreement with the flotation results obtained in both laboratory and pilot-scale tests. The model-based simulator can be used to design and diagnose flotation circuits. Typical input parameters include the size-by-class mineralogical composition of a feed, flotation cell characteristics, flow rates, and the types and dosages of reagents. (C) 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.