An approximation theorem of Runge type for kernels of certain non-elliptic partial differential operators

For a constant coefficient partial differential operator $P(D)$ with a single characteristic direction such as the time-dependent free Schrodinger operator as well as non-degenerate parabolic differential operators like the heat operator we characterize when open subsets $X_1subseteq X_2$ of $mathbb{R}^d$ form a $P$-Runge pair. The presented condition does not require any kind of regularity of the boundaries of $X_1$ nor $X_2$. As part of our result we prove that for a large class of non-elliptic operators $P(D)$ there are smooth solutions $u$ to the equation $P(D)u=0$ on $mathbb{R}^d$ with support contained in an arbitarily narrow slab bounded by two parallel characteristic hyperplanes for $P(D)$.