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In mathematics and applied mathematics, perturbation theory comprises methods for finding an approximate solution to a problem, by starting from the exact solution of a related, simpler problem.[1][2] A critical feature of the technique is a middle step that breaks the problem into "solvable" and "perturbative" parts.[3] In regular perturbation theory, the solution is expressed as a power series in a small parameter .[1][2] The first term is the known solution to the solvable problem. Successive terms in the series at higher powers of usually become smaller. An approximate 'perturbation solution' is obtained by truncating the series, often keeping only the first two terms, the solution to the known problem and the 'first order' perturbation correction.
Perturbation theory is used in a wide range of fields and reaches its most sophisticated and advanced forms in quantum field theory. Perturbation theory (quantum mechanics) describes the use of this method in quantum mechanics. The field in general remains actively and heavily researched across multiple disciplines.
- ^ a b Bender, Carl M. (1999). Advanced mathematical methods for scientists and engineers I : asymptotic methods and perturbation theory. Steven A. Orszag. New York, NY: Springer. ISBN 978-1-4757-3069-2. OCLC 851704808.
- ^ a b Holmes, Mark H. (2013). Introduction to perturbation methods (2nd ed.). New York: Springer. ISBN 978-1-4614-5477-9. OCLC 821883201.
- ^ William E. Wiesel (2010). Modern Astrodynamics. Ohio: Aphelion Press. p. 107. ISBN 978-145378-1470.