The Dynamics of Urban Spatial Structure: Some Exploratory Results Using Difference Equations and Bifurcation Theory

Abstract

It is demonstrated that a simple difference equation model, which exhibits complex bifurcation behaviour, can be used to represent change in urban retailing and residential systems. These submodels are combined to form a rudimentary dynamic model of urban spatial structure. A sample of exploratory results are presented for a 169-zone hypothetical system.