Asymptotic states for hyperbolic conservation laws with a moving source

We construct noninteracting wave patterns (i.e., asymptotic states) for a conservation law with a general moving source term. When nonlinear resonance occurs, which is the case when the characteristic speed is near the speed of the source, instability may result. We identify a stability criterion which is independent of the flux function. This is so, even if composite wave patterns exist, as may be the case for nonconvex flux functions. We study the general scalar model as well as transonic gas flows through a duct with varying cross section. For the latter case, noninteracting wave patterns for such a flow are constructed for arbitrary equations of state. It is shown that the stability of a wave pattern depends on the geometry of the duct, and not on the equation of the state. In particular, transonic steady shock waves along a converging duct are unstable, and flow along a diverging duct is always stable.