Astrophysics Problem (gravitational lensing)

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on solving an astrophysics problem related to gravitational lensing, specifically calculating the radius of the Einstein ring (r_E) and the angle of deflection (θ) of light by a point mass. The formula for r_E is given as r_E = √(4GM/c²)√(D₁D₁s/Dₛ), but the user is unable to proceed due to the unknown mass (M) of the lensing object. The user seeks guidance on estimating M from the provided diagrams and how to compute r_E and θ without this critical value.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of gravitational lensing concepts
  • Familiarity with Einstein ring radius calculations
  • Knowledge of light deflection angles in astrophysics
  • Basic proficiency in using gravitational equations (e.g., Newton's law of gravitation)
NEXT STEPS
  • Research methods for estimating mass of lensing objects in gravitational lensing scenarios
  • Study the application of the Einstein ring radius formula in practical problems
  • Learn about the significance of angular deflection in astrophysical contexts
  • Explore advanced gravitational lensing techniques and their implications in cosmology
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Astrophysics students, researchers in gravitational lensing, and anyone interested in the mathematical modeling of light deflection in the presence of massive objects.

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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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