Abstract
An improved homogeneous balance (IHB) method is introduced. On using the IHB method, a new auto-Bäcklund transformation and multi-solitonic solutions were obtained for a generalized variable-coefficient Burgers equation. The obtained solitary waves were found to propagate with a variable propagating speed which depends on the coefficients of the studied model. Also, fusion of two single solitary waves into a one-resonant solitary wave is pointed out.