Bruce M. Hannon

Book Description
Computer models offer a means of interpreting and analyzing the dynamics of real-world systems ranging from population growth to ozone depletion. Dynamic Modeling introduces an approach to modeling that makes it a more practical, intuitive endeavor. The book enables readers to convert their understanding of a phenomenon to a computer model, and then to run the model and let it yield the inevitable dynamic consequences built into the structure of the model.
Dynamic Modeling uses STELLA II software to develop simulation models. Part I provides an introduction to modeling dynamic systems. Part II offers general methods for modeling. Parts III through VIII apply these methods to model real-world phenomena from chemistry, genetics, ecology, economics, and engineering. To develop and execute dynamic simulation models, Dynamic Modeling comes with STELLA II run-time software for Windows-based computers, as well as computer files of sample models used in the book.

Dynamic Modeling offers a clear, approachable introduction to the modeling process, and will be of interest in any field where real problems can be illuminated by computer simulation.

Book Info
A thorough introduction to modeling for a variety of different kinds of systems, including biological, physical, social, and economic systems. The CD-ROM contains STELLA, a modeling software for use with the exercises in the text. System requirements: CD-ROM drive. DLC: Digital computer simulation.
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Modeling Dynamic Biological Systems

FROM THE PUBLISHER
Until recently, a significant background in mathematics and computer programming was needed to develop models for understanding complex system behavior in the fields of biology and ecology. This concise and accessible introduction to the biological and ecological applications of computer simulations encourages readers from a wide range of disciplines to actively incorporate computer modeling into their education and research. The accompanying CD-ROM contains models and a run-time version of the popular Stella "RM" II and Madonna "RM" simulation modeling software, allowing readers to visualize their results.

Editorial Reviews

Book Description
Models help us understand the nonlinear dynamics of real-world processes by using the computer to mimic the actual forces that are known or assumed to result in a system's behavior. The complexity of biological systems, from cells to ecosystems, are particularly well suited to this method because the feedback processes governing them have made it difficult to identify natural laws describing their behavior. This book does not require a substantial background in mathematics or computer science and encourages all students and scholars to actively incorporate modeling into their education and research. Using STELLA and MADONNA software, Modeling Dynamic Biological Systems applies methods of computer simulation to real-world phenomena in a wide range of topics from laboratory biology and ecology. The book includes sections on physical and biochemical processes, genetics, single- and multiple-population dynamics, and catastrophe and self-organization. STELLA and MADONNA run-time software as well as computer files of sample models accompany the book on a CD-ROM. The software is compatible with both Macintosh- and Windows-based computers. About the Series: The availability of powerful, intuitive software for developing and running simulation models of real-world phenomena promises a revolution in studying, teaching, and thinking about complex problems that range from the functioning of a cell to the functioning of an ecosystem to the functioning of a national economy. The books in the series Modeling Dynamic Systems will promote the spread of "systems thinking" by integrating state-of-the-art modeling techniques with the theories and concepts of specific disciplines or interdisciplinary topics. The unifying theme of the series is the ease, power, and transparency of model-building.
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