Mathematical Sciences: Shock Stability in Systems that Change Type

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In this project the principal investigator will continue her important work on the well-posedness of systems of partial differential equations that can change type. Such systems have solutions of shock-wave type that serve as mechanisms for the propoagation of waves, even in parts of the domain where the system is no longer hyperbolic. These types of problems occur in the transonic flow of gases and in the flow of multi-phase fluids through porous media. In particular, the principal investigator will study the stability of shock waves in systems of equations that undergo changes from hyperbolic to elliptic type using regularization and perturbation methods. The behavior of fluids (liquids and gases) under unusual conditions such as in the upper atmosphere or in the earth is governed by a complicated system of partial differential equations that can under go what is called a "change of type". Basically this means that the system has solutions of different kinds in different parts of the domain. As an illustration, think of the behavior of a seismic wave generated inside the earth by a earthquake. The wave passes through regions that are in liquid, solid or composite states. In this project the principal investigator will examine certain solutions of a system of model equations that exhibit change-of-type behavior that are known as "shock waves". The study of shock waves arises in such technologically important areas as transonic flow and flow through porous media.