| Abstract: | The compressible Navier–Stokes equations for reacting gases are extremely complex. Simpler models have been considered, and for these completely non-physical propagation speeds have been observed. These model problems are stiff, meaning that several different scales are present in the solution. Numerical solution of non-reacting flows almost always involves addition of extra dissipation. It will be shown that this action will render a totally wrong propagation speed for a simple model equation of reacting flows. This problem will be accentuated by increasing stiffness of the problem. Existence and uniqueness of a solution to this model equation is proved. The dependence of the propagation speed on the viscosity and a term governing the stiffness (comparable to the reaction rate for a more complete model) is investigated. A remedy for the wrong propagation speed for this simple model equation is proposed such that the speed is correct although the front is smeared out. |
