A method is proposed for obtaining traveling‐wave solutions of nonlinear wave equations that are essentially of a localized nature. It is based on the fact that most solutions are functions of a hyperbolic tangent. This technique is straightforward to use and only minimal algebra is needed to find these solutions. The method is applied to selected cases.

This content is only available via PDF.
AAPT members receive access to the American Journal of Physics and The Physics Teacher as a member benefit. To learn more about this member benefit and becoming an AAPT member, visit the Joining AAPT page.