Collapse dynamics for two-dimensional space-time nonlocal nonlinear Schrödinger equations

Abstract

The question of collapse (blow-up) in finite time is investigated for the two-dimensional (non-integrable) space-time nonlocal nonlinear Schrödinger equations. Starting from the two-dimensional extension of the well known AKNS q,r system, three different cases are considered: (i) partial and full parity-time (PT) symmetric, (ii) reverse-time (RT) symmetric, and (iii) general q,r system. Through extensive numerical experiments, it is shown that collapse of Gaussian initial conditions depends on the value of its quasi-power. The collapse dynamics (or lack thereof) strongly depends on whether the nonlocality is in space or time. A so-called quasi-variance identity is derived and its relationship to blow-up is discussed. Numerical simulations reveal that this quantity reaching zero in finite time does not (in general) guarantee collapse. An alternative approach to the study of wave collapse is presented via the study of transverse instability of line soliton solutions. In particular, the linear stability problem for perturbed solitons is formulated for the nonlocal RT and PT symmetric nonlinear Schrödinger (NLS) equations. Through a combination of numerical and analytical approaches, the stability spectrum for some stationary one soliton solutions is found. Direct numerical simulations agree with the linear stability analysis which predicts filamentation and subsequent blow-up.