Try it on paper first. A hint, the key idea and the worked solution are here when you need them.
This problem is for A-Level and IB, and it is not in the NEET syllabus. In the Lotka-Volterra model, for each prey in a year, , and for each predator in a year.
In predation, the predator gains and the prey is harmed. Predators carry energy, control the prey and keep species diversity. Prey defend with camouflage, poison and warning colours, thorns and chemicals. The balance point of the Lotka-Volterra equations and is and , and the swings have the period .
Have you tried it?
Work it out on paper first. It is fine to get stuck or make a mistake: that is how we learn. When you are ready, go through the solution one step at a time, and check each step against your own.
Given. , , , .
Plan. Set both rates of change to zero to find the balance. Use the formula for the period.
Step 1. (a) prey.
Step 2. (b) predators.
Step 3. (c) . The period is years.
Answer: prey; predators; years.
Check. The curve of the lesson has peaks about nine years apart.
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