Do I need to install anything?

No. It runs in any modern browser, free, with no account required.

For K-12 Students · Abelian Sandpile

Abelian Sandpile for a supply chain

Built for k-12 students learning it in middle or high school. Watch the idea come alive with plain-language steps and everyday examples — perfect for projects and homework. Simulate a supply chain live below — adjust the inputs and watch it respond, right in your browser.

Abelian SandpileLive

self-organized criticality

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Grains drop on the center cell. When a cell reaches 4 grains it topples, sending one to each neighbor — which can trigger chain-reaction avalanches. The pile self-organizes into an intricate fractal at the critical slope.

▶ Run in Python

Data Inspector

Grains added0

Last avalanche0

Topple at4 grains

Governing equation

z_{ij} \geq 4 : z_{ij} \to z_{ij} - 4, z_{nbr} \to z_{nbr} + 1; grains = 0

Reading this result: The pile is still filling toward its critical slope; once cells reach 4 grains, chain-reaction topples begin.

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Frequently asked questions

Is this good for k-12 students?: Yes — this version of "Abelian Sandpile for a supply chain" is framed for k-12 students learning it in middle or high school. Watch the idea come alive with plain-language steps and everyday examples — perfect for projects and homework.
Do I need to install anything?: No. It runs in any modern browser, free, with no account required.