Nonlinear boundary value problems and linking number (Q5945998)

Using the concept of a linking number, the author proves the existence of solutions to a rather general class of boundary value problems with nonlinear boundary conditions. As pointed out in the introduction, the main idea is that if the boundary conditions are linked, then moving some boundary condition with the flow, one must hit the other boundary condition. These results are obtained under relatively weak restrictions, because no asymptotic or growth assumptions are required. The main theorem guarantees the existence of at least two solutions.