Perturbation (noun)

1. The act of disturbing or disrupting something or someone, especially a system or equilibrium.
2. A small change or deviation in a system or process that can have a significant effect on its behavior or outcome.

Origin:

From the latin word perturbare meaning "to disturb, to throw into confusion".

Examples:

1. The storm caused a perturbation in the atmosphere.
2. The introduction of a new predator caused a perturbation in the ecosystem.
3. A small perturbation in the orbit of a comet can cause it to change its course.
4. A perturbation in the economy can cause a recession.
5. A perturbation in the stock market can cause a panic.