Past exam of the mathematics course of the University of Cambridge / 2006 / ii / Paper 2 / 7E (Dynamical Systems)

A strict Lyapunov function is a continuously differentiable function $V$ with $V(0)=0$, $V(x)>0$ off the origin, and $\nabla V\cdot f<0$ off the origin in the domain. Its compact sublevel sets inside the domain are forward invariant and force convergence to the equilibrium. The domain of stability, or basin of attraction, consists of initial points whose forward solutions exist for all positive time and converge to the fixed point.

For $V=(x^2+y^2)/2$, direct differentiation and factorization giveIf $R^2=x^2+y^2<1/2$, then $x^2+4y^2\le 4R^2<2$, so $\dot{V}<0$ off zero. For any initial point in that disc, choose a slightly larger closed disc still inside it. The vector field points inward on its boundary; the trajectory is bounded, exists globally, and the strict Lyapunov decrease forces its limit to be zero. Thus the origin is asymptotically stable and the whole open disc lies in its basin.

If $R^2>2$, then $x^2+4y^2\ge R^2>2$, so $\dot{V}>0$. A solution starting there cannot cross inward through $R^2=2$ and cannot approach zero. Therefore