Dimensionality and dissipation in Langmuir collapse

The nonlinear Schrödinger equation provides a model for Langmuir evolution at low energy density and wavenumber. This equation is studied using virial theorem techniques. Stationary solitons and pulsating solitons (related to ’’breathers’’) are found in one dimension, as well as collapsing packets in two or more dimensions. Initial wave-packet collapse thresholds and times are found, with and without constant collisional damping. In three dimensions, a narrow collapsing core is observed to break away from an initial Gaussian packet and become asymptotically self-similar with time.