Diffusion patterns

Expansion diffusion

originates an essential place and then expands outward and all directions to other locations

Contagious diffusion

begins at a point of origin and then moves outward to nearby locations especially those on adjoining transportation lines

Hierarchical diffusion

A first order location and then moves down to second order locations and from each of these to subordinate locations at increasing local scale

Stimulus diffusion

A general or underlying principle that diffuses and then stimulates the creation of new products or ideas.

Relocation diffusion

pattern begins at a point of origin and then crosses a significant physical barrier such as an ocean a mountain range or a desert and then relocates on the other side