Limiter-based fully-discrete entropy stable explicit DG schemes for ideal MHD equations

Abstract

We propose a class of high-order fully-discrete entropy stable (ES) explicit discontinuous Galerkin (DG) solvers for the compressible ideal magnetohydrodynamics (MHD) equations. Our main theoretical contribution is the introduction of a novel generalized-path-decomposition framework for MHD equations in Godunov's symmetric form. By innovatively interpreting the interior volume integral of the non-conservative source term as a path integral along a generalized path constructed by the solution polynomial, we establish the weak cell entropy inequality for the fully-discrete DG schemes. This overarching framework also accommodates other existing DG solvers based on the symmetric form. Combined with a carefully designed ES limiter, the proposed scheme satisfies the genuine fully-discrete cell entropy inequality. With this property, a Lax--Wendroff-type theorem can be obtained to show that the solution limit satisfies the entropy condition. Finally, the scheme is naturally compatible with the locally divergence-free space. Extensive numerical experiments demonstrate the scheme's low numerical dissipation and strong robustness.