Mathematical analysis of a scalar multidimensional conservation law with discontinuous flux

Abstract

We deal in this paper with a scalar conservation law, set in a bounded multidimensional domain, and such that the convective term is discontinuous with respect to the space variable. First, we introduce a weak entropy formulation for the homogeneous Dirichlet problem associated with the first-order reaction-convection equation that we consider. Then, we establish an existence and uniqueness property for the weak entropy solution. The method of doubling variables and a pointwise reasoning along the curve of discontinuity are used to state uniqueness. Finally, the vanishing viscosity method allows us to prove the existence result. Another method to obtain the existence of a solution, which relies on the regularization of the flux, is also detailled, at least for a particular case.