The real function ϕ(x,t) satisfies the equation
∂t∂ϕ+U∂x∂ϕ=∂x3∂3ϕ,
where U>0 is a constant. Find the dispersion relation for waves of wavenumber k and deduce whether wave crests move faster or slower than a wave packet.
Suppose that ϕ(x,0) is given by a Fourier transform as
ϕ(x,0)=∫−∞∞A(k)eikxdk
Use the method of stationary phase to find ϕ(Vt,t) as t→∞ for fixed V>U.
[You may use the result that ∫−∞∞e−aξ2dξ=(π/a)1/2 if Re(a)⩾0.]
What can be said if V<U ? [Detailed calculation is not required in this case.]