Physical applications of Nekhoroshev theorem and exponential estimates (Q5701744)

The Nekhoroshev theorem is an important complement to the classical KAM theory. Under some non-resonant and geometric assumptions, it affirms the stability of action variables of a perturbed Hamiltonian system for exponentially long time. The paper under review deals with applications of Nekhoroshev and related methods to important problems from the molecular dynamics (collisions, Boltzmann problem), the rigid body dynamics (the perturbed Euler-Poinsot case), and to the celestial mechanics (the stability around \(L_4-L_5\) Lagrangian equilibrium points). The both theoretical and computed assisted results are described. The author underlines the difference between applications of Nekohoroshev theorem in the classical isochronous setting and the exponential stability results holding under some less restrictive conditions (for anisochronous systems, for properly degenerate or superintegrable integrability etc.). On many concrete examples it is demonstrated how, applying the idea of successful canonical transformations, one can overcome various degeneracy problems producing as a result the exponentially long time stability results. An illuminating sketch of Nekhoroshev theorem is given together with a complete list of references. The paper is a valuable source for people working with applications of perturbative techniques to physical problems. For the entire collection see [Zbl 1054.70002].