User Guide > Overview > What Can FlexPDE Do?

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FlexPDE can solve systems of first or second order partial differential equations in one, two or three-dimensional Cartesian geometry, in one-dimensional spherical or cylindrical geometry, or in axi-symmetric two-dimensional geometry. (Other geometries can be supported by including the proper terms in the PDE.)

•	The system may be steady-state or time-dependent, or alternatively FlexPDE can solve eigenvalue problems. Steady-state and time-dependent equations can be mixed in a single problem.

•	Any number of simultaneous equations can be solved, subject to the limitations of the computer on which FlexPDE is run.

•	The equations can be linear or nonlinear. (FlexPDE automatically applies a modified Newton-Raphson iteration process in nonlinear systems.)

•	Any number of regions of different material properties may be defined.

•	Modeled variables are assumed to be continuous across material interfaces. Jump conditions on derivatives follow from the statement of the PDE system. (CONTACT boundary conditions can handle discontinuous variables.)

•	FlexPDE can be extremely easy to use, and this feature recommends it for use in education. But FlexPDE is not a toy. By full use of its power, it can be applied successfully to extremely difficult problems.