Evans Function for Lax Operators with Algebraically Decaying Potentials

We study the instability of algebraic solitons for integrable nonlinear equations in one spatial dimension that include modified KdV, focusing NLS, derivative NLS, and massive Thirring equations. We develop the analysis of the Evans function that defines eigenvalues in the corresponding Lax operators with algebraically decaying potentials. The standard Evans function generically has singularities in the essential spectrum, which may include embedded eigenvalues with algebraically decaying eigenfunctions. We construct a renormalized Evans function and study bifurcations of embedded eigenvalues, when an algebraically decaying potential is perturbed by a generic potential with a faster decay at infinity. We show that the bifurcation problem for embedded eigenvalues can be reduced to cubic or quadratic equations, depending on whether the algebraic potential decays to zero or approaches a nonzero constant. Roots of the bifurcation equations define eigenvalues which correspond to nonlinear waves that are formed from unstable algebraic solitons. Our results provide precise information on the transformation of unstable algebraic solitons in the time-evolution problem associated with the integrable nonlinear equation. Algebraic solitons of the modified KdV equation are shown to transform to either travelling solitons or time-periodic breathers, depending on the sign of the perturbation. Algebraic solitons of the derivative NLS and massive Thirring equations are shown to transform to travelling and rotating solitons for either sign of the perturbation. Finally, algebraic homoclinic orbits of the focusing NLS equation are destroyed by the perturbation and evolve into time-periodic space-decaying solutions.