Modeling biological dynamics
A differential equation describes how quickly a state changes.
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A differential equation describes how quickly a state changes. In a simple production-minus-decay model, dx/dt = production - decay*x. A steady state occurs when these rates balance, not when both processes stop. Parameters describe quantities such as production or decay rates; units and initial conditions matter.
Worked example
For production=6 units/hour and decay=2 per hour, dx/dt=6-2x has steady state x=3. Starting at x=0, the state initially increases at 6 units/hour.