Spline methods for conversation equations

The consider the numerical solution of physical theories, in particular hydrodynamics, which can be formulated as systems of conservation laws. To this end we briefly describe the Basis Spline and collocation methods, paying particular attention to representation theory, which provides discrete analogues of the continuum conservation and dispersion relations, and hence a rigorous understanding of errors and instabilities. On this foundation we propose an algorithm for hydrodynamic problems in which most linear and nonlinear instabilities are brought under control. Numerical examples are presented from one-dimensional relativistic hydrodynamics. 9 refs., 10 figs