Von Neumann's expanding model on random graphs

TL;DR

This paper analyzes the maximum growth rate of autocatalytic reaction networks within Von Neumann's expanding model, using numerical and analytical methods, revealing how network connectivity influences growth regimes.

Contribution

It extends the understanding of Von Neumann's model to finite and fluctuating reaction connectivities, providing analytical and numerical insights into growth regimes.

Findings

Transition from contracting to expanding regimes as reaction-to-reagent ratio increases

Larger growth rates are achievable in finite D networks compared to the fully connected case

The range of attainable growth rates shrinks with increasing network connectivity

Abstract

Within the framework of Von Neumann's expanding model, we study the maximum growth rate r achievable by an autocatalytic reaction network in which reactions involve a finite (fixed or fluctuating) number D of reagents. r is calculated numerically using a variant of the Minover algorithm, and analytically via the cavity method for disordered systems. As the ratio between the number of reactions and that of reagents increases the system passes from a contracting (r<1) to an expanding regime (r>1). These results extend the scenario derived in the fully connected model ($D\to\infinity$), with the important difference that, generically, larger growth rates are achievable in the expanding phase for finite D and in more diluted networks. Moreover, the range of attainable values of r shrinks as the connectivity increases.