Phase line problem, my given solution is wrong I believe

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the analysis of the differential equation y' = -y^2 + 2y - 1, focusing on the phase line, the behavior of solutions as time approaches infinity, and the stability of equilibrium points. Participants are examining the implications of initial conditions on the solution and correcting misunderstandings regarding the behavior of y over time.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents a solution and questions the validity of the claims regarding the behavior of y(t) based on different initial conditions.
  • Another participant suggests an alternative form for analysis, indicating that rewriting the equation could simplify understanding.
  • A participant agrees with the suggestion and expresses confusion about the original analysis, indicating a belief that it is incorrect.
  • Discussion includes clarification that y=1 is an equilibrium point and that for y<1, y' is positive, suggesting y increases toward y=1, not negative infinity.
  • Another participant points out a potential misunderstanding regarding the sign of y', asserting that it is negative for all y except at the equilibrium point.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express disagreement regarding the original analysis of the solution's behavior, with some believing it to be incorrect while others provide clarifications that challenge the initial claims. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the implications of the initial conditions on the solution.

Contextual Notes

There are unresolved assumptions about the interpretation of the phase line and the behavior of solutions based on different initial conditions. The discussion highlights the need for careful analysis of the signs in the differential equation.

ericm1234
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I was given the solution to this problem:
y'=-y^2+2y-1, plot phase line, solve it, in terms of y(0)=y0, what happens as t goes to infinity.
So then the phase line shows x=1 is 'semistable'. Also the solution is y= 1+ (y0-1)/(1+(y0-1)t) but now he claims this, which I believe is wrong:
if y0=1: y(t)=0 for all t>0
if y0>1, y(t) goes to 0 as t goes to infin.
if y0<1, y(t) goes to neg. infin. (also confused here because he now writes, "as t (arrow up) 1/(1-y0)" )
 
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hi ericm1234! :smile:

it's easier to analyse if you write it as y - 1 = 1/(t - C) :wink:

(which is exactly what you get if you solve the equation directly)
 
Agreed Tiny-Tim. But now, when t=0, c=-1/(y0-1). Ok, my issue now is with the analysis that I listed above, which I believe is wrong, as I wrote it (from the solutions to the problem given to me by the teacher)
 
yes, it's wrong :redface:
 
In terms of the phase line, [itex]y'= -(y- 1)^2[/itex] so that y= 1 is an equilibrium point. For y< 1, y- 1< 0 but it is squared so that [itex]y'= -(y-1)^2[/itex] is positive and y is increasing toward y= 1 NOT toward negative infinity. For y> 1, y- 1> 0 but with the squaring we still have [itex]y'= -(y-1)^2[/itex] positive and y increases away from y= 1 to infinity.
 
I think you disregarded the negative sign then. y' is negative for all y, except y=1.
 

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