Biology
Gradient
A gradual change in a quantity across space or time. Biological gradients include concentration gradients, temperature gradients, and morphogen gradients that guide development.
Biological Context
Gradients store energy and information. Cells use concentration gradients to generate ATP and transmit nerve signals. Developmental gradients position cells and determine their fate. Organisms orient themselves using environmental gradients (light, temperature, chemicals).
Business Application
Business gradients: differences in price, talent, information, or opportunity across markets. Gradients create flows—value moves down gradients. Arbitrage exploits gradients. Competitive advantage often comes from positioning on the right side of gradients.