A comparative study of characteristic-based algorithms for the Maxwell equations (Q1913818)

The authors consider initial value problems involving Maxwell's equations, and develop a strong conservative form of the flux vector form of the system in terms of a general system of spatial coordinates. They suggest that solutions may be discussed by splitting of the flux vectors, and discuss the applicability of using finite volume approximations for the modified flux vector equations. The theory is illustrated by obtaining numerical solutions for fields associated with an oscillating electric dipole in a rectangular waveguide with a number of different mesh systems, the condition of no reflection being approximated by taking zero values at the outermost nodes. The agreement with the accurate solution is satisfactory but indications are given as to how accuracy may be lost.