DE with Two Saddle Points: Finding an Explicit Example

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the properties of differential equations (DE) with a focus on systems exhibiting saddle points. The original poster seeks an explicit example of a DE with exactly two saddle points and questions the implications of certain conditions at the origin.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to explore the relationship between eigenvalues and the formation of a system with two saddle points. Some participants question the clarity of the problem statement and the conditions necessary for defining equilibrium points.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants raising questions about the problem's clarity and the assumptions involved. There is no explicit consensus, but some guidance is being offered regarding the requirements for defining equilibrium points in the context of the DE.

Contextual Notes

Participants note a lack of specific details in the problem statement, which may affect the interpretation and exploration of the topic. There is also mention of an impending test, adding urgency to the discussion.

Tony11235
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Suppose F and G are [tex]c^2[/tex] and [tex]F_x = F_y = G_x = G_y = 0[/tex] at the origin. Must the origin be an asymptotically stable equilibrium point?

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Give an explicit example of a DE with exactly two saddle points and no other equilibria. Anybody? Could I work backwards starting with the eigenvalues to form a system that has the two saddle points? This might be a dumb question.
 
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It would help a lot if you would actually state the problem clearly.
Without the requirement that dx/dt= F(x,y) and dy/dt= G(x,y), which you don't say, the problem makes no sense at all. Given that, what about F(x,y)= G(x,y)= 1. Is the origin even an equilibrium point?
 
HallsofIvy said:
It would help a lot if you would actually state the problem clearly.
Without the requirement that dx/dt= F(x,y) and dy/dt= G(x,y), which you don't say, the problem makes no sense at all. Given that, what about F(x,y)= G(x,y)= 1. Is the origin even an equilibrium point?

This was just posed as a review question on a "things to know sheet". There weren't any specific details. Oh well. Too late. Test in 40 minutes.
 
Presumably, then, you were expected to know what material was being reviewed or at least what course this is- things WE do not know!
 
Did you REALLY have to state the obvious?
 

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