A linearized Riemann solver for the steady supersonic Euler equations

Abstract A very simple linearization of the solution to the Riemann problem for the steady supersonic Euler equations is presented. When used locally in conjunction with the Godunov method, computing savings by a factor of about four relative to the use of exact Riemann solvers can be achieved. For severe flow regimes, however, the linearization loses accuracy and robustness. We then propose the use of a Riemann solver adaptation procedure. This retains the accuracy and robustness of the exact Riemann solver and the computational efficiency of the cheap linearized Riemann solver. Numerical results for two‐ and three‐dimensional test problems are presented.