Definition of One-way wave equation
A one-way wave equation is a first-order partial differential equation describing one wave traveling in a direction defined by the vector wave velocity. It contrasts with the second-order two-way wave equation describing a standing wavefield resulting from superposition of two waves in opposite directions (using the squared scalar wave velocity). In the one-dimensional case it is also known as a transport equation, and it allows wave propagation to be calculated without the mathematical complication of solving a 2nd order differential equation. Due to the fact that in the last decades no general solution to the 3D one-way wave equation could be found, numerous approximation methods based on the 1D one-way wave equation are used for 3D seismic and other geophysical calculations, see also the section § Three-dimensional case.
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Further reading
- Acoustic wave equation · Wikibooks: Engineering Acoustics
Frequently asked questions
What is One-way wave equation?
A one-way wave equation is a first-order partial differential equation describing one wave traveling in a direction defined by the vector wave velocity.