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Exercise 104

Avg difficulty 2.5

Derive an analogous classification of critical points for equations in one dimension, such as x′=f(x)x'= f(x) based on the derivative. A point x0x_0 is critical when f(x0)=0f(x_0) = 0 and almost linear if in addition f′(x0)≠0f'(x_0) \neq 0. Figure out if the critical point is stable or unstable depending on the sign of f′(x0)f'(x_0). Explain. Hint: see the “Autonomous equations” section.

Lebl, Notes on Diffy Qs, §8.2 Stability and classification of isolated critical points, exercise 104

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Adapted from Notes on Diffy Qs © 2008–2026 Jiří Lebl. Licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0. Source: Notes on Diffy Qs: Differential Equations for Engineers. Imported at revision 658bcae.