Where do perturbative and non-perturbative QCD meet?

Abstract

We computed the static potential and Wilson loops to $O({\alpha }^2)$ in perturbation theory for different lattice quark and gluon actions. In general, we find short distance lattice data to be well described by ``boosted perturbation theory''. For Wilson-type fermions at present-day quark masses and lattice spacings agreement within 10% between measured ``$\beta$-shifts'' and those predicted by perturbation theory is found. We comment on prospects for a determination of the real world QCD running coupling.

Comments: 3 pages, 4 figures, Talk at Lattice 2001 in renormalisation and improvement session