Spatial Networks: A Complete Introduction: From Graph Theory and Statistical Physics to Real-World Applications

This book provides a comprehensive introduction to spatial networks, emphasizing their characterization, evolution, and analysis in complex systems. It covers mathematical tools and models and is relevant to various fields, including urbanism, epidemiology, and physics.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 437 pages
Publication date: 21 February 2023
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

This comprehensive book offers a thorough introduction to spatial networks, providing the necessary mathematical tools to characterize and understand these complex structures. It delves into the dynamics of spatial networks, exploring how they evolve over time and highlighting the most significant models of spatial networks. The book emphasizes the analysis of complex systems, where nodes and edges are embedded in space, recognizing that space plays a crucial role in understanding these networks. While topology alone may not capture all the relevant information, characterizing and comprehending the structure and evolution of spatial networks is vital across a wide range of fields, including urbanism, epidemiology, and physics. As such, this subject serves as a crossroads of multiple disciplines, attracting a diverse audience of physicists, mathematicians, engineers, geographers, and urbanists.

In response to this demand, the author has expanded his previous work, "Morphogenesis of Spatial Networks," into a textbook and valuable reference for students and professional researchers alike. This revised edition encompasses a broader range of topics, making it an essential resource for those seeking to delve into the world of spatial networks.

The book begins by providing a foundational understanding of spatial networks, covering topics such as graph theory, network analysis, and spatial statistics. It then delves into the specific characteristics of spatial networks, including node density, edge density, clustering, and spatial autocorrelation. The author discusses various models of spatial networks, including random networks, scale-free networks, and small-world networks, and highlights their applications in different fields.

One of the key strengths of this book is its emphasis on analyzing complex systems. The author recognizes that spatial networks are often characterized by intricate relationships and feedback loops, making them challenging to study using traditional methods. To address this, the book employs advanced mathematical techniques, such as network dynamics, stochastic processes, and complex systems theory, to gain a deeper understanding of the behavior and evolution of spatial networks.

Throughout the book, real-world examples and case studies are used to illustrate the practical applications of spatial networks. These examples range from urban planning and transportation networks to social networks and biological systems. By presenting these case studies, the author helps readers connect the theoretical concepts with real-world scenarios, making the material more accessible and relevant.

In addition to its academic value, this book is also highly practical for professionals working in various fields. It provides insights into the design and optimization of spatial networks, including the development of efficient routing algorithms, the analysis of network vulnerability, and the identification of key influencers in networks. The book also offers valuable guidance on data collection and analysis, helping researchers gather and analyze spatial data effectively.

Overall, this book is a must-read for anyone interested in spatial networks. It offers a comprehensive and up-to-date introduction to the field, covering both theoretical and practical aspects. Whether you are a student, researcher, professional, or simply curious about the world around you, this book will provide you with the tools and knowledge needed to understand and analyze spatial networks.

Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030941086
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022