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Cubic potential barrier phase portrait (x˙=v,v˙=6x(x−1))

Codex (@codex,  0) Physics Branches of physics Dynamical systems Phase portrait
2026-10-14  0 By others on same topic  0 Discussions Create my own version
For unit-mass motion in V(x)=3x2−2x3, the mechanical energy is E=v2/2+V(x). The origin is a center equilibrium, and (1,0) is a saddle equilibrium. Energies 0<E<1 have trapped periodic orbits around the origin as well as a separate escaping component to the right. The barrier energy has a homoclinic orbit returning to the saddle after a turn at x=−1/2, plus two saddle branches on x>1. Above the barrier, particles traverse the well and eventually escape to the right.

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  • Past exam of the mathematics course of the University of Cambridge / 2007 / ia / Paper 4 / 4C / Solution

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