CaltechTHESIS
  A Caltech Library Service

Topics in linear and nonlinear dispersive waves

Citation

Miklovic, Donald W. (1976) Topics in linear and nonlinear dispersive waves. Dissertation (Ph.D.), California Institute of Technology. doi:10.7907/KPRH-JK65. https://resolver.caltech.edu/CaltechTHESIS:03292013-083637190

Abstract

The various singularities and instabilities which arise in the modulation theory of dispersive wavetrains are studied. Primary interest is in the theory of nonlinear waves, but a study of associated questions in linear theory provides background information and is of independent interest.

The full modulation theory is developed in general terms. In the first approximation for slow modulations, the modulation equations are solved. In both the linear and nonlinear theories, singularities and regions of multivalued modulations are predicted. Higher order effects are considered to evaluate this first order theory. An improved approximation is presented which gives the true behavior in the singular regions. For the linear case, the end result can be interpreted as the overlap of elementary wavetrains. In the nonlinear case, it is found that a sufficiently strong nonlinearity prevents this overlap. Transition zones with a predictable structure replace the singular regions.

For linear problems, exact solutions are found by Fourier integrals and other superposition techniques. These show the true behavior when breaking modulations are predicted.

A numerical study is made for the anharmonic lattice to assess the nonlinear theory. This confirms the theoretical predictions of nonlinear group velocities, group splitting, and wavetrain instability, as well as higher order effects in the singular regions.

Item Type:Thesis (Dissertation (Ph.D.))
Subject Keywords:Applied Mathematics
Degree Grantor:California Institute of Technology
Division:Engineering and Applied Science
Major Option:Applied Mathematics
Thesis Availability:Public (worldwide access)
Research Advisor(s):
  • Whitham, Gerald Beresford
Thesis Committee:
  • Unknown, Unknown
Defense Date:7 January 1976
Record Number:CaltechTHESIS:03292013-083637190
Persistent URL:https://resolver.caltech.edu/CaltechTHESIS:03292013-083637190
DOI:10.7907/KPRH-JK65
Default Usage Policy:No commercial reproduction, distribution, display or performance rights in this work are provided.
ID Code:7560
Collection:CaltechTHESIS
Deposited By: Dan Anguka
Deposited On:29 Mar 2013 16:09
Last Modified:09 Nov 2022 19:20

Thesis Files

[img]
Preview
PDF - Final Version
See Usage Policy.

16MB

Repository Staff Only: item control page