Describe qualitatively the behaviour of ϕ(x,t), for λ≪1, when ∣x∣≫ln(2/λ), when ∣x∣≪1, and when coshx≈λ1∣sinλt∣. Explain how this solution can be interpreted in terms of motion of a kink and an antikink. Estimate the greatest separation of the kink and antikink.
(ii) The field ψ(x,t) obeys the nonlinear wave equation
∂t2∂2ψ−∂x2∂2ψ+dψdU=0
where the potential U has the form
U(ψ)=21(ψ−ψ3)2.
Show that ψ=0 and ψ=1 are stable constant solutions.
Find a steady wave solution ψ=f(x−vt) satisfying the boundary conditions ψ→0 as x→−∞,ψ→1 as x→∞. What constraint is there on the velocity v?