Abstract: | This note discusses the numerical solution of the kinematic wave equation under those conditions when the solution contains a discontinuous shock. A finite element solution is described in which shocks are represented by discrete nodal discontinuities. The implementation of the method follows conventional finite element practice over the shockless regions of the solution domain which are coupled by frontal constraints. The basis of the method and examples of its application to the solution of the kinematic wave equation in one and two dimensions are presented. |