Various exact solutions to the time-fractional nonlinear Schrödinger equation via the new modified Sardar sub-equation method

Abstract We aim to investigates the nonlinear Schrödinger equation including time-fractional derivative in (3+1)-dimensions by considering cubic and quantic terms The modified Sardar sub-equation method is used that lead to the discovery of a unique class of optical solutions. To transform the suggested nonlinear equation into an ordinary differential equation, we applied wave transformations, resulting in a set of nonlinear equations that offer diverse solution scenarios. The derived solutions encompass dark, wave, bright, mixed dark-bright, bell-shape, kink-shape, and singular soliton solutions. To enhance our understanding of the dynamic behavior exhibited by these solitons under varying time parameter values, visual simulations through a variety of graphs is presented. Furthermore, a comprehensive comparison is conducted, exploring a range of values for the conformable fractional order parameter. This comparison aims to highlight on the influence of fractional order variations on the solutions, contributing valuable insights into the nuanced dynamics of the system. Overall, this study serves to advance our understanding of nonlinear processes, and its potential applications in real-life phenomena. In the field of nonlinear optics, this equation can describe the propagation of optical pulses in nonlinear media. It helps in understanding the behavior of intense laser beams as they propagate through materials exhibiting nonlinear optical effects such as self-focusing, self-phase modulation, and optical solitons.