What defines a complicated system?

A complicated system is characterized by having many parts with relationships or interactions that are fixed rather than variable. This means that, while the system may have numerous components, the ways in which these components interact do not change and can be understood and analyzed in a systematic way. In a complicated system, although the interactions among the parts can be complex, they are predictable and typically follow established rules or equations.

This fixed nature allows for analysis and troubleshooting, making it possible to understand and manage the system effectively. For example, mechanical systems, such as a car engine, can be considered complicated because they have many components, yet their interactions are well-defined and predictable based on engineering principles.

In contrast, systems that exhibit variable interactions or relationships, simple structures with predictable outcomes, or those that can't be predictively modeled tend to be categorized differently, such as complex systems, which behave more unpredictably and adaptively.