ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Homotopy perturbation method

Homotopy Perturbation Method, or HPM for short, is a mathematical method for solving equations. It is used when there are no easy ways to solve an equation using traditional methods, such as algebra or calculus. Think of HPM as a way to "guess" at a solution to an equation, and then refine it until it becomes more accurate.

Imagine you're trying to solve a puzzle, but you don't know the answer yet. With HPM, you start by making a guess at what the answer might be. Then, you try to make small adjustments to your guess, like moving a piece a tiny bit closer to where it actually belongs. With each adjustment, you get closer and closer to the correct answer.

So, here's how it works:

- First, you start with an equation that you want to solve.
- Then, you use a special formula called a homotopy to create a new equation that is easier to solve. A homotopy is a fancy name for a way of relating two things that might seem unrelated at first glance.
- Next, you use a series of simple equations and algebra to start guessing at a solution to the new equation you just created.
- Finally, you use these guesses to refine your solution until it matches the original equation as closely as possible.

In simpler terms, HPM is like using trial and error to find an answer to a problem. You start with a guess, try to get closer to the answer through a series of small adjustments, and eventually end up with a solution that works. It's a creative and useful way of solving equations when other methods aren't working.