Autocatalytic Reaction Network: Bistability
Schlögl model — two stable steady states connected by an unstable branch
X = 0.00 | State: —
The Schlögl model (A + 2X ⇌ 3X; X ⇌ B) exhibits bistability: two stable fixed points (high-X and low-X states) separated by an unstable saddle. The bifurcation diagram shows a fold (saddle-node) structure. Autocatalysis (X catalyzes its own production) creates positive feedback enabling this switching behavior fundamental to cellular decision-making.