Nodal solutions of weighted indefinite problems

This paper analyzes the structure of the set of nodal solutions, i.e., solutions changing sign, of a class of one-dimensional superlinear indefinite boundary value problems with indefinite weight functions in front of the spectral parameter. Quite surprisingly, the associated high-order eigenvalues may not be concave as is the case for the lowest one. As a consequence, in many circumstances, the nodal solutions can bifurcate from three or even four bifurcation points from the trivial solution. This paper combines analytical and numerical tools. The analysis carried out is a paradigm of how mathematical analysis aids the numerical study of a problem, whereas simultaneously the numerical study confirms and illuminates the analysis.