Mathematical Limitations of Gravity Model in Constructing Regional Association Networks: A Case Study

This study evaluates the limitations of gravity models in constructing regional association networks, using China’s interprovincial economic connections as a case study. Comparison between a gravity-model-based simulated network and an actual network reveals significant topological differences. The gravity model overestimates the influence of larger, inward-oriented provinces and fails to accurately represent external connections. Attempts to refine the model with additional variables proved ineffective. Further theoretical analysis attributes these deficiencies to measurement bias from the model’s simplified binary perspective and information loss due to dimensional mismatch between pairwise predictions and complex network structures. These findings underscore the need for cautious application of gravity models and the development of more comprehensive analytical frameworks in regional network analysis.