I'm new to this game and I'm really struggling to understand all the mechanics.  The tutorials, the manual, the SOAS wiki and even this site haven't yielded a nice compilation of information that really gets to the level of detail I'm looking for.  Specifically, I'm looking for how damage is assigned in combat, the exact impact (statistically) that each structure makes on economy, culture, etc.  e.g. what income/sec impact do trade centers have?  I've seen the counter chart and that was very helpful, but I don't know the formula for where damage is dealt first and how much it impacts shields/armor/etc.  Also, how does population translate into income?  Also, an assessment of the techs would be nice too. 

I assume something like this just hasn't been compiled yet, but if the information is out there, I'd sure appreciate it if someone could link me up. 

Thanks all!