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The principal symbol of the equation isIn the standard notation $A{u}_{tt}+2B{u}_{tx}+C{u}_{xx}$, we have $A=tx$, $B=0$, and $C=-1$, soA second-order equation is a hyperbolic partial differential equation exactly where this discriminant is positive. Hence the hyperbolic set isthe union of the first and third open quadrants.

For $u_0>u_A$, define the Alfvénic Mach-cone slopeThe equation in part (b) is the hyperbolic partial differential equationwhose characteristic curves are $x\pm mz=\text{constant}$. Let $W(s)$ be one for $|s|<L/2$ and zero otherwise. Selecting the characteristics that trail downstream, toward negative $x$, and imposing part (c) givesThe stationary induction and mass conservation equations then givewith $\delta u_z=\delta u_y=\delta B_y=0$. In the strongly super-Alfvénic limit, $\delta u_x\simeq u_{A}b/B_0$ and $\delta B_z\simeq b{u}_A/u_0$ inside the disturbed region.

The perturbations have support only whereBecause the wing is infinite in $y$, this is the union of two inclined slabs bounded by the characteristic planes $x+m|z|=\pm L/2$. These two trailing slabs are the Alfvén wings generated by the conductor.