NONLINEAR WAVE PROPAGATION IN DISORDERED MEDIA

Abstract

We briefly review the state-of-the-art of research on nonlinear wave propagation in disordered media. The paper is intended to provide the non-specialist reader with a flavor of this active field of physics. Firstly, a general introduction to the subject is made. We describe the basic models and the ways to study disorder in connection with them. Secondly, analytical and numerical techniques suitable for this purpose are outlined. We summarize their features and comment on their respective advantages, drawbacks and applicability conditions. Thirdly, the Nonlinear Klein-Gordon and Schrödinger equations are chosen as specific examples. We collect a number of results that are representative of the phenomena arising from the competition between nonlinearity and disorder. The review is concluded with some remarks on open questions, main current trends and possible further developments.