Numerical Solution Of Partial Differential Equations By The Finite Element Method

An accessible introduction to the finite element method for solving numeric problems, this volume offers the keys to an important technique in computational mathematics. Suitable for advanced undergraduate and graduate courses, it outlines clear connections with applications and considers numerous examples from a variety of science- and engineering-related specialties.This text encompasses all varieties of the basic linear partial differential equations, including elliptic, parabolic and hyperbolic problems, as well as stationary and time-dependent problems. Additional topics include finite element methods for integral equations, an introduction to nonlinear problems, and considerations of unique developments of finite element techniques related to parabolic problems, including methods for automatic time step control. The relevant mathematics are expressed in non-technical terms whenever possible, in the interests of keeping the treatment accessible to a majority of students.

A systematic introduction to partial differential equations and modern finite element methods for their efficient numerical solution Partial Differential Equations and the Finite Element Method provides a much-needed, clear, and systematic introduction to modern theory of partial differential equations (PDEs) and finite element methods (FEM). Both nodal and hierachic concepts of the FEM are examined. Reflecting the growing complexity and multiscale nature of current engineering and scientific problems, the author emphasizes higher-order finite element methods such as the spectral or hp-FEM. A solid introduction to the theory of PDEs and FEM contained in Chapters 1-4 serves as the core and foundation of the publication. Chapter 5 is devoted to modern higher-order methods for the numerical solution of ordinary differential equations (ODEs) that arise in the semidiscretization of time-dependent PDEs by the Method of Lines (MOL). Chapter 6 discusses fourth-order PDEs rooted in the bending of elastic beams and plates and approximates their solution by means of higher-order Hermite and Argyris elements. Finally, Chapter 7 introduces the reader to various PDEs governing computational electromagnetics and describes their finite element approximation, including modern higher-order edge elements for Maxwell's equations. The understanding of many theoretical and practical aspects of both PDEs and FEM requires a solid knowledge of linear algebra and elementary functional analysis, such as functions and linear operators in the Lebesgue, Hilbert, and Sobolev spaces. These topics are discussed with the help of many illustrative examples in Appendix A, which is provided as a service for those readers who need to gain the necessary background or require a refresher tutorial. Appendix B presents several finite element computations rooted in practical engineering problems and demonstrates the benefits of using higher-order FEM. Numerous finite element algorithms are written out in detail alongside implementation discussions. Exercises, including many that involve programming the FEM, are designed to assist the reader in solving typical problems in engineering and science. Specifically designed as a coursebook, this student-tested publication is geared to upper-level undergraduates and graduate students in all disciplines of computational engineeringand science. It is also a practical problem-solving reference for researchers, engineers, and physicists.

A practical and concise guide to finite difference and finite element methods. Well-tested MATLAB® codes are available online.

Numerical Methods for Partial Differential Equations: An Introduction Vitoriano Ruas, Sorbonne Universités, UPMC - Université Paris 6, France A comprehensive overview of techniques for the computational solution of PDE's Numerical Methods for Partial Differential Equations: An Introduction covers the three most popular methods for solving partial differential equations: the finite difference method, the finite element method and the finite volume method. The book combines clear descriptions of the three methods, their reliability, and practical implementation aspects. Justifications for why numerical methods for the main classes of PDE's work or not, or how well they work, are supplied and exemplified. Aimed primarily at students of Engineering, Mathematics, Computer Science, Physics and Chemistry among others this book offers a substantial insight into the principles numerical methods in this class of problems are based upon. The book can also be used as a reference for research work on numerical methods for PDE’s. Key features: A balanced emphasis is given to both practical considerations and a rigorous mathematical treatment The reliability analyses for the three methods are carried out in a unified framework and in a structured and visible manner, for the basic types of PDE's Special attention is given to low order methods, as practitioner's overwhelming default options for everyday use New techniques are employed to derive known results, thereby simplifying their proof Supplementary material is available from a companion website.

This is the practical introduction to the analytical approach taken in Volume 2. Based upon courses in partial differential equations over the last two decades, the text covers the classic canonical equations, with the method of separation of variables introduced at an early stage. The characteristic method for first order equations acts as an introduction to the classification of second order quasi-linear problems by characteristics. Attention then moves to different co-ordinate systems, primarily those with cylindrical or spherical symmetry. Hence a discussion of special functions arises quite naturally, and in each case the major properties are derived. The next section deals with the use of integral transforms and extensive methods for inverting them, and concludes with links to the use of Fourier series.

This book presents methods for the computational solution of differential equations, both ordinary and partial, time-dependent and steady-state. Finite difference methods are introduced and analyzed in the first four chapters, and finite element methods are studied in chapter five. A very general-purpose and widely-used finite element program, PDE2D, which implements many of the methods studied in the earlier chapters, is presented and documented in Appendix A. The book contains the relevant theory and error analysis for most of the methods studied, but also emphasizes the practical aspects involved in implementing the methods. Students using this book will actually see and write programs (FORTRAN or MATLAB) for solving ordinary and partial differential equations, using both finite differences and finite elements. In addition, they will be able to solve very difficult partial differential equations using the software PDE2D, presented in Appendix A. PDE2D solves very general steady-state, time-dependent and eigenvalue PDE systems, in 1D intervals, general 2D regions, and a wide range of simple 3D regions. Contents:Direct Solution of Linear SystemsInitial Value Ordinary Differential EquationsThe Initial Value Diffusion ProblemThe Initial Value Transport and Wave ProblemsBoundary Value ProblemsThe Finite Element MethodsAppendix A — Solving PDEs with PDE2DAppendix B — The Fourier Stability MethodAppendix C — MATLAB ProgramsAppendix D — Answers to Selected Exercises Readership: Undergraduate, graduate students and researchers. Key Features:The discussion of stability, absolute stability and stiffness in Chapter 1 is clearer than in other textsStudents will actually learn to write programs solving a range of simple PDEs using the finite element method in chapter 5In Appendix A, students will be able to solve quite difficult PDEs, using the author's software package, PDE2D. (a free version is available which solves small to moderate sized problems)Keywords:Differential Equations;Partial Differential Equations;Finite Element Method;Finite Difference Method;Computational Science;Numerical AnalysisReviews: "This book is very well written and it is relatively easy to read. The presentation is clear and straightforward but quite rigorous. This book is suitable for a course on the numerical solution of ODEs and PDEs problems, designed for senior level undergraduate or beginning level graduate students. The numerical techniques for solving problems presented in the book may also be useful for experienced researchers and practitioners both from universities or industry." Andrzej Icha Pomeranian Academy in Słupsk Poland

Finite element methods for approximating partial differential equations have reached a high degree of maturity, and are an indispensible tool in science and technology. This textbook aims at providing a thorough introduction to the construction, analysis, and implementation of finite element methods for model problems arising in continuum mechanics. The first part of the book discusses elementary properties of linear partial differential equations along with their basic numerical approximation, the functional-analytical framework for rigorously establishing existence of solutions, and the construction and analysis of basic finite element methods. The second part is devoted to the optimal adaptive approximation of singularities and the fast iterative solution of linear systems of equations arising from finite element discretizations. In the third part, the mathematical framework for analyzing and discretizing saddle-point problems is formulated, corresponding finte element methods are analyzed, and particular applications including incompressible elasticity, thin elastic objects, electromagnetism, and fluid mechanics are addressed. The book includes theoretical problems and practical projects for all chapters, and an introduction to the implementation of finite element methods.