Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 14, 2026

Predicting the Effectiveness of Population Replacement Strategy Using Mathematical Modeling
Published on: July 4, 2007
A mathematical model of the London riots and their policing
Toby P Davies1, Hannah M Fry, Alan G Wilson
1Department of Mathematics, University College London, Gower Street, London WC1E 6BT, UK. toby.davies.09@ucl.ac.uk
Abstract:
In August 2011, several areas of London experienced episodes of large-scale disorder, comprising looting, rioting and violence. Much subsequent discourse has questioned the adequacy of the police response, in terms of the resources available and strategies used. In this article, we present a mathematical model of the spatial development of the disorder, which can be used to examine the effect of varying policing arrangements. The model is capable of simulating the general emergent patterns of the events and focusses on three fundamental aspects: the apparently-contagious nature of participation; the distances travelled to riot locations; and the deterrent effect of policing. We demonstrate that the spatial configuration of London places some areas at naturally higher risk than others, highlighting the importance of spatial considerations when planning for such events. We also investigate the consequences of varying police numbers and reaction time, which has the potential to guide policy in this area.
Related Concept Videos
Modeling with Differential Equations
Steps in Outbreak Investigation
Mathematical Modeling: Problem Solving
Mechanistic Models: Compartment Models in Individual and Population Analysis
Exponential Equations for Modeling Growth
Design Example: Creating a Hydraulic Model of a Dam Spillway
