Angle deflection from gravitational lenses

In summary, angle deflection from gravitational lenses occurs when the path of light is bent by the gravity of massive objects, such as galaxies or clusters of galaxies, in the line of sight. This is caused by the warping of space-time and can result in the distortion or magnification of distant objects. There are two types of gravitational lenses that produce angle deflection: strong and weak, with strong lenses having a higher mass and producing larger deflections. Angle deflection is measured using telescopes and specialized instruments, and studying it allows scientists to gain insights into the distribution of matter in the universe, detect and study dark matter, and test theories of gravity and the structure of the universe.
  • #1
Niles
1,866
0
Hi all

The expression for the angle deflection on the following page: http://relativity.livingreviews.org/open?pubNo=lrr-1998-12&page=node2.html

Is the impact parameter r in the expression the distance to the surface of the objects that deflects the light or the the center of mass of the object? Unfortunately they do not specify this.
 
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  • #2
It is the radius.
 
  • #3
I'm thinking it's probably the latter..
 

1. What is angle deflection from gravitational lenses?

Angle deflection from gravitational lenses is a phenomenon in which the path of light is bent due to the gravity of massive objects, such as galaxies or clusters of galaxies, in the line of sight. This can result in the distortion or magnification of the image of a distant object.

2. How does it occur?

Angle deflection from gravitational lenses occurs due to the warping of space-time by massive objects. This warping causes the path of light to deviate from its original direction, resulting in the bending of light rays.

3. What types of gravitational lenses produce angle deflection?

There are two main types of gravitational lenses that produce angle deflection: strong and weak. Strong gravitational lenses have a high mass and are capable of producing significant deflection of light, while weak gravitational lenses have a lower mass and produce smaller deflections.

4. How is angle deflection measured?

Angle deflection from gravitational lenses is measured through the use of telescopes and specialized instruments, such as spectrographs and photometers. These instruments allow scientists to observe and analyze the distorted images of distant objects and calculate the amount of deflection.

5. What is the significance of studying angle deflection from gravitational lenses?

Studying angle deflection from gravitational lenses allows scientists to gain a better understanding of the distribution of matter in the universe. It also provides a way to indirectly detect and study dark matter, as well as test and refine theories of gravity and the structure of the universe.

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