Estimate of the error occurring in the linearization of geometrically nonlinear problems of the theory of elasticity (Q581027)

Error estimates are constructed for solving geometrically linear elasticity theory problems for small displacement gradients. It is shown that the solutions of geometrically nonlinear and their corresponding linear problems differ in a norm \(L_ 2\) by terms of the order of the displacement gradients themselves. Certain sufficient conditions for which the linearization procedure is legitimate for small deformations are established as a function of the geometry of the elastic body in the undeformed state. The reasons why the linearization of the nonlinear problem for small deformation can result in an error for bodies of shell or bar type are clarified.