Analytic solutions of initial–boundary-value problems of transient conduction using symmetries

Lie symmetry method is applied to find analytic solutions of initial–boundary-value problems of transient conduction in semi-infinite solid with constant surface temperature or constant heat flux condition. The solutions are obtained in a manner highlighting the systematic procedure of extending the symmetry method for a PDE to investigate BVPs of the PDE. A comparative analysis of numerical and closed form solutions is carried out for a physical problem of heat conduction in a semi-infinite solid bar made of AISI 304 stainless steel.