B-mode plots, spherical harmonics?, fundamental modes?

TTIn summary, the B-mode sky plots can be Fourier transformed to show the lowest order B-mode harmonic plotted on a sphere. This would require two functions of spherical coordinates, one for amplitude and one for orientation at points on a sphere. It is believed that this lowest order harmonic is caused by a hypothetical "gravitational wave." Additional information and visualizations can be found at the provided links.
  • #1
Spinnor
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If the B-mode sky plots could be Fourier transformed what would be a plot of the lowest order B-mode harmonic plotted on a sphere look like?

I guess we need two functions of spherical coordinates, one function for amplitude at points on a sphere and one function for the orientation at the same points on a sphere?

Is there a hypothetical "gravitational wave" that gives rise to this lowest order harmonic?

Thanks for any help!
 
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  • #2

1. What are B-mode plots and how are they used in cosmology?

B-mode plots are a type of graph used in cosmology to analyze the polarization of the cosmic microwave background (CMB) radiation. They show the patterns of polarization in the CMB, which can provide information about the early universe and the processes that occurred during its evolution.

2. What are spherical harmonics and how do they relate to B-mode plots?

Spherical harmonics are a mathematical function used to describe the distribution of data on a sphere. In the context of cosmology, they are used to analyze the patterns of polarization in the CMB and are often plotted in B-mode plots to show the different modes of polarization.

3. How do fundamental modes relate to B-mode plots?

Fundamental modes refer to the different types of polarization patterns that can be observed in the CMB. These modes are separated and displayed in B-mode plots, which can help scientists understand the physical processes that occurred in the early universe.

4. Can B-mode plots be used to test theories of cosmic inflation?

Yes, B-mode plots are an important tool in testing theories of cosmic inflation. The patterns of polarization in the CMB can provide evidence for or against different models of inflation, helping scientists better understand the early universe.

5. How are B-mode plots created and analyzed?

B-mode plots are created using data collected from satellites and ground-based telescopes that observe the CMB. This data is then analyzed using statistical methods and mathematical techniques, such as spherical harmonics, to identify patterns and extract information about the universe's early history.

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