Understanding Equlibrium Points in differential equations

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around finding equilibrium points in a system of differential equations, specifically focusing on the equations dx/dt = 1 - y and dy/dt = x^2 - y^2. Participants are exploring the conditions under which these derivatives equal zero to identify the equilibrium points.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the process of setting the derivatives to zero to find equilibrium points, with some questioning the correctness of their initial findings. There are attempts to factor and solve quadratic equations, as well as considerations of the implications of multiple solutions.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided guidance on the interpretation of the equations and the potential for multiple solutions. There is acknowledgment of confusion regarding notation and the definitions of variables, with ongoing exploration of the Jacobian matrix and its relevance to the problem.

Contextual Notes

There is mention of a potential misunderstanding regarding the notation used in the equations, which may have contributed to confusion. Additionally, the thread was moved to a more appropriate section of the forum, indicating a shift in focus for the discussion.

Martyn Arthur
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Homework Statement
Find equilibrium points of differential equations
Relevant Equations
dx/dt =1-y (1)
dy/dt =x^2-y^2 (2)
For dx/dt = 0 (1)
1-y =0 , y= 1
substituting
For dy/dt = 0 (1)
for dy/dt x= sqrt 1 =1
so I have points (0,1) and (0,1)
But this isn't correct!
'cant figure out where to go from here?
Thanks
Martyn
 
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How do you solve x^2 - 1 = 0?
 
Thank you....
x^2 =1
so x =1
not +/-1 just 1 as per my calculator.
I hate blaming ADHD, I rate quite high on chess.com its ridiculous but on occasions I get into this situation.
We have an x value of 1
I need to fit it in here, but can't see how
dx/dt =1-y (1)
 
x^2 - 1 = (x + 1)(x - 1) = 0 has both x = \pm 1 as solutions.
 
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AH substituting 1 for y^2 and factorising gives me , for x +/-1

So thus, I believe we have (-1,1) and (1,1)
Thank you, onwards to the Jacobian maitrix.
Martyn
 
Following on am I correct in saying that for the Jacobian maitrix the partial derivatives of dee u / dee/x and dee u / dee y are -y and 1 respectively
and the partial derivatives of dee v / dee/x and dee v / dee y are -2y and 2x respectively?
 
Apologies, the question should have been accompanied by my workings I will try again shortle.
 
Martyn Arthur said:
Following on am I correct in saying that for the Jacobian maitrix the partial derivatives of dee u / dee/x and dee u / dee y are -y and 1 respectively
and the partial derivatives of dee v / dee/x and dee v / dee y are -2y and 2x respectively?
While we wait ...

Notice that you have not defined ##u## or ##v##.

I suspect the definitions are : ##\displaystyle u=x+y## and ##\displaystyle v=x-y## .
 
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Martyn Arthur said:
Relevant Equations: dx/dt =1-y (1)
dy/dt =x^2-y^2 (2)

For dx/dt = 0 (1)
1-y =0 , y= 1
substituting
For dy/dt = 0 (1)
for dy/dt x= sqrt 1 =1
so I have points (0,1) and (0,1)
But this isn't correct!
I'm late to the party as I didn't notice this thread, which was posted in the Adv. Physics HW section. I've moved it to Calculus & Beyond, which is a better fit.

@Martyn Arthur, your notation is confusing with the numbers that indicate the equations possibly being mistaken for something else.

From the first equation,
##\frac{dx}{dt} = 0 \Rightarrow 1 - y = 0 \Rightarrow y = 1##

From the second equation,
##\frac{dy}{dt} = 0 \Rightarrow x^2 - y^2 = 0##

For both equations to be satisfied, the second equation becomes ##x^2 = 1 \Rightarrow x = \pm 1##
I should add that when you're solving a quadratic equation, you should be thinking about the possibility of two solutions.
Therefore he two equilibrium points are (-1, 1) and (1, 1).

There is no need to invoke Jacobians and partial derivatives for the solution to this problem. In fact, calculus is not even necessary -- just straightforward algebra.
 
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Thank you; particularily reference to possibility of 2 solutions
 

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