Discontinuous finite element basis functions for nonlinear partial differential equations (Q915404)

The article is claimed by its authors to introduce for the first time discontinuous finite element basis functions in a rigorous way for the approximative solution of nonlinear partial differential equations. The nonlinearity creates products involving Heaviside functions and derivatives of the Dirac \(\delta\) distribution and these multiplication problems are dealt with the noncommutative multiplication theory of \textit{B. Fuchssteiner} [Stud. Math. 77, 439-453 (1984; Zbl 0543.46021)]. Two simple examples illustrate the implementation of the discontinuous basis functions: the dispersionless Korteweg-de Vries equation \(u_ t+(u+1)u_ x=0\) and the Burgers equation \(u_ t+u\cdot u_ x=\epsilon u_{xx}.\) In both cases the method leads to a system of ordinary differential equations which in turn can be solved sequentially. The accuracy obtained compares well with that achieved by the standard product approximation.