Multiple periodic solutions for one-sided sublinear systems: a refinement of the Poincaré-Birkhoff approach (Q2194625)

The paper investigates the existence of periodic solutions, both harmonic and subharmonic, for planar Hamiltonian systems of the type \[ x' = h(y), \qquad y' = - a(t)g(x), \] where \(a(t)\) is a sign-changing periodic function and at least one of \(g\) and \(h\) is bounded on \(\mathbb{R}^-\) or \(\mathbb{R}^+\). At first, by further assuming the global continuability for the solutions, a multiplicity result is proved via the Poincaré-Birkhoff theorem; as usual, solutions are distinguished via their nodal properties. Then, a refinement of this result, obtained with the theory of topological horseshoses, is presented; here, the assumption of global continuability is replaced by a largeness condition on the weight function \(a(t)\) in its negativity intervals. In this latter case, the existence of chaotic dynamics is also ensured. Applications of the results are finally described for a Minkowksi-curvature equation like \[ \left( \frac{u'}{\sqrt{1-(u')^2}} \right)' + a(t) g(u) = 0 \] as well as for the equation, with exponential nonlinearity, \[ u'' + k(t)e^u = p(t). \]