Astrophysics Problem (gravitational lensing)

AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around solving a gravitational lensing problem involving the calculation of the Einstein ring radius (r_E) and the angle of deflection (θ) of light by a point mass. The user attempts to derive r_E using the formula r_E = √(4GM/c²)√(D₁D₁s/Dₛ) but is hindered by not knowing the mass (M) of the lensing object. They express the need for assistance in estimating the effective mass from the provided diagrams and how to proceed with calculations without this crucial information. The main focus is on finding a method to determine the mass of the lensing object to enable further calculations. Understanding the relationship between the mass and the gravitational lensing parameters is essential for solving the problem.
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Homework Statement



I need some help with the following problem:

http://img543.imageshack.us/img543/9630/lensq.jpg

The Attempt at a Solution



First I have tried to work out the radius of the Einstein ring:

r_E = \sqrt{\frac{4GM}{c^2}}.\sqrt{\frac{D_1D_{1s}}{D_s}} = \sqrt{\frac{4(6.67×10^{11})M)}{(3 \times 10^8)^2}}

And here is a diagram of the situation under consideration:

http://img841.imageshack.us/img841/2751/ering.jpg

However I can't solve for rE because I don't know M. But if I knew eE I could find θ (the angle of deflection of light by a point mass) as follows:

\theta = \frac{4GM}{c^2(r_E+r_s)}

Where rs is the stellar radius, and here is a diagram of the situation:

http://img542.imageshack.us/img542/8624/deflection.jpg

Where in this case I believe b = rE + rs.

So how can I solve for rE and θE when I don't know what M is? Furthermore, how can I estimate the effective mass from the figure given in the question? Any help is greatly appreciated.
 
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My main question is, how can I find the mass of the lensing object? :confused: Without this I can't calculate anything else.
 
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