Scale-free networks with self-growing weight

TL;DR

This paper introduces a new weighted scale-free network model where link weights grow independently of node attachment, allowing for analytical derivation of properties and better modeling of certain social networks.

Contribution

The paper proposes a novel self-growing weight mechanism in scale-free networks, enhancing understanding of weight distribution and network evolution.

Findings

Weight distribution follows a specific analytical form

Model accurately describes some social networks

Links' weights grow independently of node attachment

Abstract

We present a novel type of weighted scale-free network model, in which the weight grows independently of the attachment of new nodes. The evolution of this network is thus determined not only by the preferential attachment of new nodes to existing nodes but also by self-growing weight of existing links based on a simple weight-driven rule. This model is analytically tractable, so that the various statistical properties, such as the distribution of weight, can be derived. Finally, we found that some type of social networks is well described by this model.