Linearly implicit time discretization of non-linear parabolic equations

We give a stability and error analysis of linearly implicitone-step methods for time discretization of non-linear parabolicequations. We derive precise error bounds for Rosenbrock andW-methods, and we explain the error reduction by Richardsonextrapolation of the linearly implicit Euler method which occursin spite of the breakdown of asymptotic expansions. The parabolicequations are studied in a Hilbert space framework that includessemilinear and quasilinear parabolic equations, and also stiffreaction-diffusion equations with reactions at different timescales.