Lab 1: Simple Systems

 

The simplest systems have only one variable (hardly a system) but can provide significant insight into how more complicated things work. In particular they are useful for demonstrating the basic steps required for creating and understanding quantitative models

1. Formulating the model
2. Analyzing the model
3. Solving the model
4. Understanding the model
5. Accepting (or more likely rejecting) the model

Here we will consider some simple models for population growth of a single species. The first problem is worked out in detail. The second one you're on your own.

• The Bio-Bomb
  • Formulation
  • Model Analysis
  • Solving the problem with STELLA
  • Another way of visualizing this problem: Fixed points and stability
• Limits to growth: the logistic equation
  • Model Formulation
  • Problems