Hydrodynamics of a Discrete Conservation Law

Abstract: The Riemann problem for the discrete conservation law $2 \dot{u}n + u^2{n+1} - u^2_{n-1} = 0$ is classified using Whitham modulation theory, a quasi-continuum approximation, and numerical simulations. A surprisingly elaborate set of solutions to this simple discrete regularization of the inviscid Burgers' equation is obtained. In addition to discrete analogues of well-known dispersive hydrodynamic solutions -- rarefaction waves (RWs) and dispersive shock waves (DSWs) -- additional unsteady solution families and finite time blow-up are observed. Two solution types exhibit no known conservative continuum correlates: (i) a counterpropagating DSW and RW solution separated by a symmetric, stationary shock and (ii) an unsteady shock emitting two counter-propagating periodic wavetrains with the same frequency connected to a partial DSW or a RW. Another class of solutions called traveling DSWs, (iii), consists of a partial DSW connected to a traveling wave comprised of a periodic wavetrain with a rapid transition to a constant. Portions of solutions (ii) and (iii) are interpreted as shock solutions of the Whitham modulation equations.