Two-grid algorithms based on FEM for nonlinear time-fractional wave equations with variable coefficient

Abstract

In this paper, a fully discrete finite element scheme is established with L1 approximation for solving the nonlinear time-fractional wave equation with a variable coefficient. The stability of the scheme is analyzed and the optimal error estimates are derived. To improve the computational efficiency, we propose a two-grid algorithm based on the fully discrete finite element scheme. With the proposed technique, a small-scale nonlinear problem is calculated by iteration in a coarse-grid space with mesh size H, and then a linearized problem is solved in a fine-grid space with mesh size h, H≫h. This technique not only maintains the numerical precision, but also saves a lot of computing time. The stability and optimal convergence order are considered. Using the Taylor expansion, the second two-grid algorithm is constructed to improve the optimal convergence order. The similar properties are discussed in detail. Numerical experiments are provided to illustrate the theoretical analysis and test the performance of the proposed algorithms.