Solitonic and Exact Solutions for a Viscous Traffic Flow Model Via Lie Symmetry

Abstract

This work studies a macroscopic traffic flow model driven by a system of nonlinear hyperbolic partial differential equations. Using Lie symmetry analysis, we determine the infinitesimal generators and construct an optimal system of one-dimensional subalgebras, facilitating symmetry reductions for the governing system. In addition, we discussed the classical symmetry and solution of the traffic flow model with the initial conditions left invariant. By applying the method of nonlinear self-adjointness, conservation laws associated with the model are established and are utilized to obtain exact solutions. Using these exact solutions, we construct solitonic solutions, including kink-type, peakon-type, and parabolic solitons. Additionally, using the weak discontinuity $C^1$ wave illustrates nonlinear wave dynamics in traffic evolution. Moreover, we investigate how these solutions affect traffic behavior, clarifying shock wave development and flow stability. The results provide a basis for useful applications in traffic management, real-time traffic control, and intelligent transportation systems, as well as improving mathematical knowledge of traffic dynamics.