Author(s)

Marijan Ribarič, Luka Šušteršič

Jožef Stefan Institute, Ljubljana, Slovenia.

Motivation: We study the asymptotic-type dynamics of various real pointlike objects that one models by a variety of differential equations. Their response to an external force one defines solely by the trajectory of a single point. Its velocity eventually stops changing after cessation of the external force. The response of their acceleration to the long-term external force is slow and possibly nonlinear. Objective: Our objective is to present technique for making simplified models for the long-term dynamics of pointlike objects whose motion interacts with the surroundings. In the asymptotic-type long-term dynamics, the time variable t ∈ (t_m, +∞) and t_m > 0 is large, say ! Method: We apply Taylor series expansion to differential equations to model the acceleration of pointlike object whose response to the long-term external force is not instantaneous and possibly nonlinear. Results: We make simplified models for the long-term dynamics of pointlike objects by Taylor polynomials in time derivatives of the external force. Application: We interpret the relativistic Lorentz-Abraham-Dirac equation as an equation for modeling the long-term dynamics, where t ≥ t_m ≫ 0. This interpretation resolves the conceptual and usage controversy surrounding its troublesome application to determine the trajectory of a radiating charged particle, thus contributing to the development of more adequate modeling of physical phenomena.

Point Mass, Long-Term Dynamics, Harmonic Oscillator, Drag Force, Lorentz-Abraham-Dirac Equation, Taylor Series Expansion

Ribarič, M. and Šušteršič, L. (2021) On Simplified Models for Dynamics of Pointlike Objects. Journal of Applied Mathematics and Physics, 9, 1853-1869. doi: 10.4236/jamp.2021.98119.