A Mutual Selection Model for Weighted Networks

Abstract

For most networks, the connection between two nodes is the result of their mutual affinity and attachment. In this paper, we propose a mutual selection model to characterize the weighted networks. By introducing a general mechanism of mutual selection, the model can produce power-law distributions of degree, weight and strength, as confirmed in many real networks. Moreover, we also obtained the nontrivial clustering coefficient $C$, degree assortativity coefficient $r$ and degree-strength correlation, depending on a model parameter $m$. These results are supported by present empirical evidences. Studying the degree-dependent average clustering coefficient $C(k)$ and the degree-dependent average nearest neighbors' degree $k_{nn}(k)$ also provide us with a better description of the hierarchies and organizational architecture of weighted networks.