An exact description of nonlinear wave interaction processes ruled by 2 x 2 hyperbolic systems

By means of a reduction approach to 2 x 2 quasilinear hyperbolic homogeneous systems of first-order PDEs, a full and exhaustive analysis of nonlinear wave interactions is achieved. The alteration in the profile as well as in the wave time distortion of the emerging pulses caused by the interaction process is illustrated in detail through exact solutions of initial value problems. Canonical forms of 2 x 2 systems which allow for special (soliton-like) hyperbolic wave interactions and of interest in applications are also determined.