Lie algebra solution of population models based on time-inhomogeneous Markov chains

Abstract

Many natural populations are well modelled through time-inhomogeneous stochastic processes. Such processes have been analysed in the physical sciences using a method based on Lie algebras, but this methodology is not widely used for models with ecological, medical, and social applications. In this paper we present the Lie algebraic method, and apply it to three biologically well-motivated examples. The result of this is a solution form that is often highly computationally advantageous. © Applied Probability Trust 2012.