20. Numerical Methods for PDEs (basic overview)
Numerical methods are crucial for approximating solutions to Partial Differential Equations (PDEs) that model various phenomena in engineering and science. Key numerical methods include Finite Difference Method (FDM), Finite Element Method (FEM), and Finite Volume Method (FVM), each offering unique advantages based on problem characteristics. The choice of method depends on factors such as the type of PDE, geometrical complexity, and conservation requirements, guiding effective simulation in real-world applications.
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What we have learnt
- PDEs are essential in modeling diverse scientific and engineering problems.
- Numerical methods provide approximate solutions for complex PDEs when analytical solutions are not feasible.
- Key numerical methods include Finite Difference Method, Finite Element Method, and Finite Volume Method, each tailored for specific applications.
Key Concepts
- -- Partial Differential Equations (PDEs)
- Equations that involve multivariable functions and their partial derivatives, modeling phenomena like heat transfer and fluid dynamics.
- -- Finite Difference Method (FDM)
- A numerical method that approximates derivatives by replacing them with difference quotients on a discrete grid, widely used due to its simplicity.
- -- Finite Element Method (FEM)
- A numerical technique that breaks down a complex domain into smaller, simpler parts (elements) for solving PDEs, particularly useful for irregular geometries.
- -- Finite Volume Method (FVM)
- A method that integrates PDEs over control volumes, ensuring conservation laws are upheld, favored in fluid dynamics applications.
- -- Stability
- Refers to the behavior of numerical errors over time in a method; essential for ensuring that solutions do not diverge.
- -- Convergence
- The process by which a numerical method approaches the exact solution of a PDE as the grid resolution increases.
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