In this article, we introduce and analyze the class of numerical schemes known as residual distribution or fluctuation splitting schemes. The root of this family of discretizations is found mainly in works aiming at generalizing the finite volume techniques to a genuinely multidimensional upwinding context, as in, for example (Hall, Morton, Ni, Roe). However, the final result is a numerical method sharing a lot with other techniques, such as finite element schemes (Carette, Deconinck, Paillere and Roe, 1995).
Our aim is to look at fluctuation splitting/residual distribution methods from a generic theoretical point of view. We discuss in a general way the basic principles and the criteria used in the design of the schemes: positivity, k‐exacteness, energy stability, well‐balancedness. We also show similarities with known, more classical, discretization techniques, as well as the main distinguishing features that make residual distribution methods a valid alternative to these classical schemes.
Finally, we present some numerical applications and comparisons. Throughout the text, we give an extensive overview of the existing literature, and finally conclude the chapter by reviewing most of the ongoing research on the topic.