Intrinsic Structural Value (Vi = 1) as a Reference Point in the ZTH Model

In tension-based systems, overall value V emerges from the configuration of multiple interacting tensions. A companion paper introduced the ZTH model and a structural indicator V that maps a tension vector τ = (R, Q, I, C, D, Ri) to a scalar value. The present paper focuses on the intrinsic structural value Vi defined by the special case V = 1. We interpret Vi as the value obtained when all tensions are at their nominal level and the global promoter-inhibitor balance is neutral. Formally, we characterize the structural conditions under which Vi is well defined, represent Vi in the tension space and on the V-scale, and analyze small deviations around the reference state (e.g. V = 0.8, V = 1.2). This provides a structural anchor for interpreting value trajectories V(t) and perceived value Vp in subsequent work, and clarifies the difference between intrinsic structural value and value observed under non-nominal or biased tension configurations. This paper is part of the ZTH research series.Part I: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.18671741