Lie symmetry analysis and solitary wave solution of biofilm model Allen-Cahn

Abstract The investigation presented in this study delves into the analysis of Lie symmetries for the bistable Allen-Cahn (BAC) equation with a quartic potential, specifically applied to the biofilm model. By employing the Lie symmetry method, we have acquired the Lie infinitesimal generators for the considered model. Using a transformation method, the nonlinear partial differential equations (NPDEs) are converted into various nonlinear ordinary differential equations (NLODEs), providing the numerous closed-form solitary wave solutions. The obtained solutions manifest in various forms including dark, bright, kink, anti-kink, and periodic types using diverse strategies. To enhance the physical interpretation, the study presents 3D, 2D, and contour plots of the acquired solutions. Every graph’s wave-like structure contains information about the structural behaviour of the bacteria that build biofilms on surfaces where rectangles have different densities. This analysis enhances comprehension of the complex dynamics present in areas like fluid dynamics, fiber optics, biology, ocean physics, coastal engineering, and nonlinear complex physical systems.