2
$\begingroup$

I am interested in proving existence/uniqueness to: find $u(x,t)$, $v(x,t)$ such that $$u_t - a_1u_{xx} - a_2u_x - a_3u -a_4v = f$$ $$v_t - a_5u_{xx} - a_6u_x - a_7u - a_8v_{xx} - a_9v_x - a_{10}v = g$$ where the coefficients $a_i(x,t)$ are in a parabolic version of Holder space (say $C^{k, \alpha}([0,1]\times[0,t])$.

Is there already literature where this is treated? I tried Ladyschenkaja but there this type of system is not present (I believe in that book, they require $a_1 \equiv a_5$). I would appreciate if anyone had any references to this problem.

I believe though that I can probably apply a fixed-point argument to this -- again I would appreciate if someone gave a pointer as where such things are discussed. Thanks.

$\endgroup$

2 Answers 2

2
$\begingroup$

There is a classical counterexample due to Plis of an elliptic differential operator with Hölder continuous coefficients without Cauchy uniqueness. This was refined with a counterexample in divergence form by Miller in a 1974 Arch. Rat. Mech.(vol. 54) article for the elliptic and parabolic case.

Hölder continuity is not enough to get uniqueness results for parabolic or elliptic equations.

$\endgroup$
2
  • $\begingroup$ Thanks. How about weak solutions? The space doesn't really matter to me. $\endgroup$
    – Bloop
    Aug 15, 2012 at 11:00
  • $\begingroup$ What is Cauchy uniqueness? Is it relevant to OP's question? The system as stated looks completely fine to me. $\endgroup$
    – timur
    Aug 23, 2012 at 1:07
2
$\begingroup$

A good reference is Krylov's Lectures on elliptic and parabolic equations in Hölder spaces. On another note, if $a_1\not\equiv a_5$ is the only reason you are stuck, then it should be possible to adapt the arguments you have for $a_1\equiv a_5$ to $a_1\not\equiv a_5$, by using uniform ellipticity.

$\endgroup$
1
  • $\begingroup$ Thank you, can you expand a little on your last sentence? $\endgroup$
    – Bloop
    Aug 14, 2012 at 18:21

Your Answer

By clicking “Post Your Answer”, you agree to our terms of service and acknowledge you have read our privacy policy.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.