Percolation as a model for informetric distributions: fragment size distribution characterised by Bradford curves

Abstract

It is shown how Bradford curves, i.e. cumulative rank-frequency functions, can describe the fragment size distribution of percolation models. This interesting fact is explained by arguing that some aspects of percolation can be interpreted as a model for the success-breeds-succes or preferential attachment phenomenon. We claim, moreover, that the percolation model can be used as a model to study generalised bibliographies. This article shows how ideas and techniques studied and developed in informetrics and scientometrics can successfully be applied in other fields of science, and vice versa.