ode15s is a variable-step, variable-order (VSVO) solver based on the numerical differentiation formulas (NDFs) of orders 1 to 5. Optionally, it can use the backward differentiation formulas (BDFs, also known as Gear's method) that are usually less efficient. Like ode113, ode15s is a multistep solver. Use ode15s if ode45 fails or is very inefficient and you suspect that the problem is stiff, or when solving a differential-algebraic equation (DAE) [1], [2].
[1] Shampine, L. F. and M. W. Reichelt, "The MATLAB ODE Suite," SIAM Journal on Scientific Computing, Vol. 18, 1997, pp. 1–22.
[2] Shampine, L. F., M. W. Reichelt, and J.A. Kierzenka, "Solving Index-1 DAEs in MATLAB and Simulink," SIAM Review, Vol. 41, 1999, pp. 538–552.
