A question from a paper on perturbation theory

  • #1
Safinaz
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TL;DR Summary
I try to read a paper on general relativity and perturbation theory:

https://arxiv.org/pdf/2109.01398.pdf#page16

My question is about equation (3.16) in section (3.2):

##
\delta \phi = -\sqrt{\frac{2}{\epsilon}} \left( \Phi+ \frac{\Phi’}{H} \right)
##
Where ##\delta \phi## is the first-order perturbation of a scalar field, ##\Phi## is the first-order perturbation of the space-time metric, and ##H## is the universe’s scale factor. It’s mentioned that this relation is given in reference:

https://arxiv.org/pdf/1002.0600.pdf

But I can't find such a relation in that reference. So I appreciate if someone had more experience in perturbation theory help me find out how this equation can be derived or proved from : https://arxiv.org/pdf/1002.0600.pdf
 
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  • #2
ok it may help to look at the equation in regards to the constraints to a single scalar field. Now while the second paper doesn't show that equation specifically it does provides the momentum constraints in section B see 33,34,35
further detail can be referenced by the second papers reference "Non-Gaussian features of primordial fluctuations in single field inflationary models" reference 3 of the second paper see section 2.4
https://arxiv.org/pdf/astro-ph/0210603.pdf

hope that helps
edit the H is likely the Hamilton in that equation as opposed to the Hubble parameter.
 

FAQ: A question from a paper on perturbation theory

What is perturbation theory?

Perturbation theory is a mathematical approach used in various fields of science and engineering to find an approximate solution to a problem that cannot be solved exactly. It involves starting with a known solution of a related, simpler problem and adding corrections to account for the differences between the simple problem and the actual problem.

How is perturbation theory applied in quantum mechanics?

In quantum mechanics, perturbation theory is used to approximate the states and energies of a quantum system when the Hamiltonian of the system can be divided into a solvable part and a small perturbing part. It helps in calculating the effects of a small disturbance or interaction on the system's wavefunctions and energy levels.

What are the limitations of perturbation theory?

Perturbation theory is limited by its reliance on the perturbing term being small compared to the main part of the problem. If the perturbation is too large, the series expansion may not converge, leading to inaccurate or meaningless results. Additionally, it may not be effective for systems with strong interactions or non-linearities.

What is the difference between time-independent and time-dependent perturbation theory?

Time-independent perturbation theory deals with systems where the perturbation does not change with time, and it is used to find corrections to the energy levels and stationary states of the system. Time-dependent perturbation theory, on the other hand, is used to study systems where the perturbation varies with time, such as in the case of an external time-varying electromagnetic field affecting a quantum system.

Can perturbation theory be used in classical mechanics?

Yes, perturbation theory can be applied in classical mechanics to study systems where the equations of motion are too complex to solve exactly. It is often used in celestial mechanics to account for the gravitational influences of additional bodies on the orbits of planets and satellites, or in studying small oscillations around stable equilibrium points.

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