Local and nonlocal symmetries for nonlinear telegraph equation

In this paper, local and nonlocal symmetry classifications are considered for four equivalent nonlinear telegraph equations. A complete potential symmetry classification of a scalar nonlinear telegraph equation is given through the point symmetry classification of a related potential system. Six new classes of equations are shown to admit potential symmetries. The relationships between local (including contact) and nonlocal (potential) symmetries of these equations are explored. A physical example is considered for possible applications of the obtained potential symmetries. (C) 2005 American Institute of Physics.