Library Dependency

This is a placeholder model. It requires the SystemDynamics library.

• The free SystemDynamics library uses Jay Forrester's system dynamics methodology for modeling mass and information flows in continuous-time systems. This methodology has been, and still is, widely used in research within the social and life sciences. The library itself is designed as a low-level graphical library with an interface similar to that of block diagrams. Another feature of the SystemDynamics library is that differential equations are hidden from the user by using terms like levels and rates instead of state variables and state derivatives.

The following documentation is taken from the main example of the downloadable model. Once you have downloaded all the model dependencies, the model can be downloaded here.

Hare-Lynx: Interactively Explore Population Dynamics

Introduction

This model explores a typical predator/prey system based on Lotka–Voltera dynamics. This relatively simple system is a good way to get started with understanding population dynamics. A high density of hares will decrease the death rate of the predator, lynx. A higher density of lynx will in turn increase the death rate of the hares.

Interactive Notebook

The included notebook uses a SystemModelParametricSimulate object to interactively explore the model. With the simulation object, different custom visualizations and interactions can be constructed. In the notebook, a parametric plot of the hare versus lynx population is plotted on top of a locator pane where the initial conditions can be chosen. Additional sliders allow you to change parameter values in the model.

Terms and Conditions of Use