r/learnmath•
IdonotevenLB

[Differential Equations] Clarifying names of equilibria

Hello all,

Just want to clarify what we call certain equilibria as it's raising some confusion with a classmate.

When we talk of a node, we say the node is stable or unstable. However, what if the equilibrium point is a saddle? Is it proper to call it a saddle node? I've seen places calling it a saddle point, and it leads to me wonder if calling it a node is appropriate? The confusion also stems from them learning that there are three types of equilibria: sink, source, and node. I'm not familiar with calling the final one (which corresponds to a saddle, if I'm correct) a node.

Any clarification on what defines a node in the context of DEs would be greatly appreciated.

Posted Dec 16, 2018, 11:15 PM UTC

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