Theoretical Basis of Biological Models in Environmental Simulation

Abstract

Biological reactions govern many environmental processes. Models of environmental processes must therefore incorporate mathematical descriptions of biological processes as well as physical and chemical processes. The most widely used model for the description of enzyme and/or bacteria catalysed reactions, cell growth, and prey-predator relation is the so-called Michaelis-Menton or Monod equation. Although more complex models exist for the description of those processes, the Monod-type equations are the predominant equations used to describe enzyme and/or bacteria catalysed reactions, growth kinetics and prey-predator relationship in the environment. This is partially due to low substrate concentrations, and slow growth and reaction rates, under which conditions, the Monod-type equations perform satisfactorily, therefore not warranting added complexity. In addition, the Monod-type equations can be readily incorporated into the macroscopic transport equations that are often used to describe environmental processes.