Systems of Differential Equations- Two models of interacting species

In summary, the conversation discusses finding equilibrium points and using the Jacobian matrix to linearize the system and classify the equilibrium point. The system has three equilibrium points, one of which has been found at (2/3,2/3). The Jacobian is a 2x2 matrix that allows for classifying the equilibrium point in the linearized system. Further information on classifying different types of equilibrium points can be found in notes or a textbook.
  • #1
thienthientoo
1
0
1. Given Information/Objectives

The following system for "stable competition":

dx/dt=(2-2x-y)x
dy/dt=(2-x-2y)y

Find the equilibrium points for the system.
Using the Jacobian matrix, linearize the system about the equilibrium that has both species present.
Classify this equilibrium.
Plot direction field and orbits.



2. The attempt at a solution


After finding equilibrium points (2/3,2/3), and the Jacobian (provided that the equilibrium points I found were correct) for the previously mentioned points (J[2/3,2/3]=28/9). I don't know where to go from here; how do I know what kind of equilibrium it is??
 
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  • #2
A few points:
1) There are 3 equilibrium (aka fixed) points; you have found one of them.
2) The Jacobian is a 2x2 matrix, with entries functions of x and y; evaluating it at a point is still a 2x2 matrix.
3) The Jacobian evaluated at a point allows you to classify the equilibrium point in the linearised system. For example, if it has two distinct positive eigenvalues, then the equilibrium point is an unstable proper node. The corresponding eigenvectors, one being dominant, allow you to sketch the direct field near the fixed point. I suggest you consult your notes or text to become aware of the other types.
 

1. What is a system of differential equations?

A system of differential equations is a set of equations that describe the relationship between multiple variables and their rates of change over time. Each equation represents the rate of change of one variable with respect to another.

2. What are interacting species in the context of differential equations?

Interacting species refer to two or more species that have an impact on each other's population growth. In the context of differential equations, this relationship is represented by the change in population of one species affecting the change in population of the other species.

3. How are differential equations used to model interacting species?

Differential equations are used to model interacting species by expressing the relationships between the species' population growth rates. This allows us to predict how the populations of each species will change over time based on their interactions with each other.

4. What are the two models used to represent interacting species?

The two models commonly used to represent interacting species are the Lotka-Volterra model and the Rosenzweig-MacArthur model. Both models use differential equations to describe the relationship between the populations of two interacting species.

5. What are some real-world applications of systems of differential equations for interacting species?

Systems of differential equations for interacting species have many real-world applications, such as studying predator-prey relationships in ecosystems, understanding the spread of diseases in populations, and predicting the impact of invasive species on native species. They are also used in fields such as economics, chemistry, and physics to model the interactions between different variables.

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