Global stability for nonlinear wave equations satisfying a generalized null condition

Abstract

We prove global stability for a system of nonlinear wave equations satisfying a generalized null condition. The generalized null condition allows for null forms whose coefficients have bounded $C^k$ norms. We prove both pointwise decay and improved decay of good derivatives using bilinear energy estimates and duality arguments. Combining this strategy with the $r^p$ estimates of Dafermos--Rodnianski then allows us to prove global stability. The proof requires analyzing the geometry of intersecting null hypersurfaces adapted to solutions of wave equations.