Abstract
The Neumann problem in two-dimensional domain with a narrow slit is studied. The width of the slit is a small parameter 0<ε�1. The complete asymptotic expansion with respect to ε for the eigenvalue of the perturbed problem converging to a simple eigenvalue of the limiting problem is constructed by means of the method of the matching asymptotic expansions. It is shown that the regular perturbation theory can formally be applied in a natural way up to terms of order ε2. However, the result obtained in that way is false. The correct result can be obtained only by means of inner asymptotic expansion.
We also show that the eigenvalue of the perturbed problem can be both more and less than the eigenvalue of the limiting problem subject to the position and geometry of the slit.