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Reinforcing vs Balancing Loop Simulator

Run the Loop Simulator Fullscreen

Sample iframe reference

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<iframe
   src="https://dmccreary.github.io/infographics/sims/reinforcing-vs-balancing/main.html"
   width="100%" height="580" scrolling="no">
</iframe>

About This MicroSim

This simulator shows the two fundamental types of feedback loops in systems thinking side by side. The reinforcing loop (R) amplifies change — producing exponential growth or decline. The balancing loop (B) resists change — producing oscillation that converges toward equilibrium.

Adjust the Initial Value and Loop Strength sliders, then click "Run Simulation" to see how each loop type drives system behavior over 40 time steps.

Lesson Plan

Learning Objective

Compare the dynamic behavior of reinforcing and balancing feedback loops by adjusting initial conditions and observing how each loop type drives system behavior over time.

Activities

  1. Run with default settings and compare the two time-series curves.
  2. Increase Loop Strength to 15-20 and observe how reinforcing growth accelerates while balancing oscillations become more dramatic.
  3. Toggle "Show Polarity" off and try to identify the loop type from the time-series behavior alone.

References