Analyzing Nonlinear PDE Systems with Polar Coordinates

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a system of ordinary differential equations (ODEs) that the original poster is attempting to analyze using polar coordinates. The goal is to determine the conditions under which the system exhibits periodic solutions.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to transform the system into polar coordinates and apply the method of variation of parameters but reports difficulties. Some participants question the classification of the problem as involving partial differential equations (PDEs) and seek clarification on the equations derived after the transformation. Others suggest analyzing the system qualitatively and finding stationary points to assess stability.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants exploring different interpretations and approaches. Some guidance has been provided regarding the qualitative analysis of the system and the identification of stationary points, but no consensus has been reached on the best method to proceed.

Contextual Notes

There is a noted confusion regarding the classification of the equations and the section in which the problem was posted, as well as the terminology used by the original poster. The original poster has acknowledged these issues.

menphis
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Homework Statement


Hi, i have the following system of equation. In the task is that system have periodic solution and have to be used polar coordinates.

Homework Equations


x'=1+y-x^2-y^2
y'=1-x-x^2-y^2

The Attempt at a Solution


After transfer to polar system i tried to use the method of variation of parameters, but without success.
 
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1) Why is this posted in the "preCalculus" section?
I assume that was a mistake and I will move it to "Calculus and Beyond" homework.

2) Why is this tltled "PDE"? I see no partial differential equations. I see a system of two ordinary differential equations.

Changing to polar coordinates looks like a very good idea but I don't know what you mean by "variation of parameters" for a non-linear equation. What equations did you get after changing to polar coordinates?
 


I'm sorry for PDE and wrong section
In the polar coordinates have equations this shape:

rho' cos(phi)=rho sin(phi)(1+phi')
rho' sin(phi)=- rho cos(phi)(1+phi')
 
Did you get anywhere yet?
One thing you might notice straightaway is that any point on the circle x2 + y2 - 1 = 0 you find the equations become those of SHM whose solution is that same circle, so that circle is a solution.
However it is not SHM in general, for no other points have that property and (0, 0) is not a stationary point.

Do you know how to analyse such systems qualitatively? This one appears quite complex and surprising.
Main thing, you have to find the stationary points (i.e. where x' = y' = 0) and analyse the stability of the linear approximation around them.

Perhaps the d.e. s can be solved too, I don't know yet.
 
Last edited:

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