Kinetic and related macroscopic models for chemotaxis on networks

Abstract

In this paper we consider kinetic and associated macroscopic models for chemotaxis on a network. Coupling conditions at the nodes of the network for the kinetic problem are presented and used to derive coupling conditions for the macroscopic approximations. The results of the different models are compared and relations to a Keller-Segel model on networks are discussed. For a numerical approximation of the governing equations asymptotic preserving relaxation schemes are extended to directed graphs. Kinetic and macroscopic equations are investigated numerically and their solutions are compared for tripod and more general networks.