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Perturbation: meaning, definitions and examples

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perturbation

 

[ pərˌtɜrˈbeɪʃən ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

scientific term

Perturbation refers to a small change or disturbance in a system. It is often used in scientific contexts, particularly in physics and metaphysics, to describe how slight variations can affect the behavior of systems. In astronomy, perturbation can refer to changes in the orbits of celestial bodies caused by gravitational influences from other bodies. In mathematics, it can describe changes in values that affect the solutions of equations. Understanding perturbations is critical for predicting the stability and dynamics of complex systems.

Synonyms

disruption, disturbance, fluctuation

Examples of usage

  • The perturbation of the satellite's orbit was measured.
  • Researchers studied the perturbations in the ecosystem.
  • Gravitational perturbation affects planetary alignment.

Translations

Translations of the word "perturbation" in other languages:

🇵🇹 perturbação

🇮🇳 विकर्षण

🇩🇪 Störung

🇮🇩 gangguan

🇺🇦 порушення

🇵🇱 zakłócenie

🇯🇵 摂動 (せつどう)

🇫🇷 perturbation

🇪🇸 perturbación

🇹🇷 bozulma

🇰🇷 섭동 (섭동)

🇸🇦 اضطراب

🇨🇿 perturbace

🇸🇰 perturbácia

🇨🇳 扰动 (rǎodòng)

🇸🇮 perturbacija

🇮🇸 truflun

🇰🇿 бұзылу

🇬🇪 შეცდომა

🇦🇿 pozğunluq

🇲🇽 perturbación

Word origin

The word 'perturbation' originates from the Latin 'perturbatio', which means 'disturbance'. This Latin term itself is derived from 'perturbare', composed of 'per-' meaning 'through' and 'turbare' meaning 'to disturb'. The word has evolved in the English language since it first appeared in the 14th century, retaining the sense of causing a disturbance or change. Over the centuries, 'perturbation' has become a significant term in various fields such as physics, mathematics, and engineering, emphasizing the impact of small changes on larger systems. Its usage in scientific literature reflects an ongoing interest in understanding the complexities of dynamic systems.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #10,837, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.