The function θ=θ(t) takes values in the interval (−π,π] and satisfies the differential equation
dt2d2θ+(λ−2μ)sinθ+5+4cosθ2μsinθ=0
where λ and μ are positive constants.
Let ω=θ˙. Express (∗) in terms of a pair of first order differential equations in (θ,ω). Show that if 3λ<4μ then there are three fixed points in the region 0⩽θ⩽π.
Classify all the fixed points of the system in the case 3λ<4μ. Sketch the phase portrait in the case λ=1 and μ=3/2.