Classical Mechanics (Kibble & Berkshire) · Problem 8.8

The energy principle — T.W.B. Kibble, F.H. Berkshire

Physics — Mechanics · phase-paths-nonlinear-oscillator

Problem

A non-linear oscillator satisfies the equation x¨+x˙3+x=0.\ddot{x} + \dot{x}^3 + x = 0. Find the polar equations for the motion of the phase points. Show that phase paths that begin within the circle r<1r < 1 encircle the origin infinitely many times in the clockwise direction. Show further that these phase paths terminate at the origin.

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