Numerical integration of a relativistic two-body problem via a multiple scales method

Abstract

We offer an analytical study on the dynamics of a two-body problem perturbed by small post-Newtonian relativistic term. We prove that, while the angular momentum is not conserved, the motion is planar. We also show that the energy is subject to small changes due to the relativistic effect. We also offer a periodic solution to this problem, obtained by a method based of separation of timescales. We demonstrate that our solution is more general than the method developed in the book by Brumberg (1991). The practical applicability of this model may be studies of the long-term evolution of relativistic binaries (neutron stars or black holes).