On the origin of divergence errors in MHD simulations and consequences for numerical schemes

Abstract

This paper investigates the origin of divergence errors in MHD simulations. For that purpose, we introduce the concept of discrete involutions for discretized conservation laws. This is done in analogue to the concept of involutions for hyperbolic conservation laws, introduced by Dafermos. By exploring the connection between discrete involutions and resonance, especially for constrained transport like MHD, we identify the lack of positive central viscosity and the assumption of one-dimensional physics in the calculation of intercell fluxes as the main sources of divergence errors. As an example of the consequences for numerical schemes, we give a hint how to modify Roe-type schemes in order to decrease the divergence errors considerably and, thus, stabilize the scheme.