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How does changing the parameter C from 0 to 1 affect the equilibria of dz/dt=4z−z3+Cdz/dt = 4z - z^3 + C?

Increasing C from 0 to 1 translates the graph of the right-hand side function vertically upward by one unit. This shift causes the three equilibria to move: the two stable equilibria shift to the right, and the unstable equilibrium shifts to the left. The qualitative structure remains the same (three equilibria with stable-outer and unstable-middle ordering), but the positions are no longer symmetric about zero.

Conditions

  • The differential equation is dz/dt=4z−z3+Cdz/dt = 4z - z^3 + C.
  • C is changed from 0 to 1.

Reasoning, step by step

  1. Compare the functions f0(z)=4z−z3f_0(z) = 4z - z^3 and f1(z)=4z−z3+1f_1(z) = 4z - z^3 + 1.
  2. Observe that f1(z)=f0(z)+1f_1(z) = f_0(z) + 1, representing a vertical upward shift.
  3. Note that the shifted curve still intersects the horizontal axis at three points.
  4. Deduce that the roots (equilibria) have moved relative to the C=0C=0 case.
  5. Identify that the stable equilibria (outer roots) move right and the unstable equilibrium (middle root) moves left.
  6. Conclude that symmetry is lost but the stability pattern is preserved.

Example

The video draws a blue curve for C=1C=1 above the green curve for C=0C=0. 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 C=1C=1.
  • Confusing vertical translation of the graph with horizontal translation of the equilibria.

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Answers are generated from source material and independently checked. Consult the original video or creator if something is unclear.