How does changing the parameter C from 0 to 1 affect the equilibria of ?
Conditions
- The differential equation is .
- C is changed from 0 to 1.
Reasoning, step by step
- Compare the functions and .
- Observe that , representing a vertical upward shift.
- Note that the shifted curve still intersects the horizontal axis at three points.
- Deduce that the roots (equilibria) have moved relative to the case.
- Identify that the stable equilibria (outer roots) move right and the unstable equilibrium (middle root) moves left.
- Conclude that symmetry is lost but the stability pattern is preserved.
Example
The video draws a blue curve for above the green curve for . The speaker notes, "the two stable equilibria are shifted to the right and the unstable equilibrium is shifted to the left," and adds, "But now they're no longer symmetric."
Common misconceptions
- Assuming that adding a constant changes the shape of the cubic function.
- Thinking that the number of equilibria changes immediately when .
- Confusing vertical translation of the graph with horizontal translation of the equilibria.
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