Nonlinear wave propagation in relativistic continuum mechanics

A unified approach to the foundation of nonlinear wave propagation in relativistic continuum mechanics is presented. The material descriptions of interest are elasticity and magnetolasticity and the limiting cases of relativistic hydrodynamics and magnetohydrodynamics. The interest is focussed on the propagation properties of infinitesimal discontinuities in finite initial states, the properties of weak shocks and the thermodynamics of strong discontinuities (shocks). The study is made for a particular type of motion, so-called one-dimensional relativistic motions. (Auth.)