INVESTIGATING PARAMETERS OF GROWTH EQUATIONS

Two differential forms of growth equations, called the power decline, or PD form, and the exponential decline, or ED form, generate classic growth equations (such as the logistic, Chapman-Richards, Korf) and ma ny other integral forms. Having a full range of these integral solutio ns allows us to classify them, establish requirements to their paramet ers, and relate these parameters and initial values (starting age and tree size). Comparisons with data confirm theoretical results. Some ap plications of the results are discussed.