Applied and Interdisciplinary Mathematics Seminar

University of Michigan

Fall 2007
Wednesday, 3 October, 12:10-1:00pm, 4096 East Hall

Some representative issues in multiscale modeling

Weinan E

Princeton University


Abstract

This talk will focus on the methodologies for efficiently capturing the macroscale behavior of a system using microscopic models. I will try to give a candid assessment of the current status of the field, discussing both the main successes and the major difficulties. I will start by reviewing some of the classical methodologies. I will then discuss the attempts that have been made to construct general frameworks. I will present a relatively new strategy for constructing seamless techniques that do not require going back and forth between the macro and micro states of the system. If time permits, I will also discuss some typical instabilities and inconsistencies that can arise in multiscale methods. Finally, I will discuss what can be done for systems that do not have scale separation or any other special features.