Numerical simulation of the wave equation with discontinuous coefficients by nonconforming finite elements

Abstract

The goal of this article is to apply the mortar finite element method to the numerical simulation of (electromagnetic and/or acoustic) waves propagating in an inhomogeneous support. This approach allows us to use meshes well adapted to the local physical parameters of the media without any conformity constraints. A complete mathematical study is supplied providing the expected optimal convergence rate. Numerical performances of such a technique, as well as its advantages, are also discussed. © 1999 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.