Comparison results for first order linear operators with reflection and periodic boundary value conditions

This work is devoted to the study of the first order operator x′(t)+mx(−t) coupled with periodic boundary value conditions. We describe the eigenvalues of the operator and obtain the expression of its related Green’s function in the non resonant case. We also obtain the range of the values of the real parameter mm for which the integral kernel, which provides the unique solution, has constant sign. In this way, we automatically establish maximum and anti-maximum principles for the equation. Some applications to the existence of nonlinear periodic boundary value problems are shown.