Hard evidence for quasar lensing

In summary, the person is asking for ironclad evidence of correlated light curves and morphological correspondence in images of lensed quasars. They specify that they want direct and incontrovertible evidence of both light curve correlation and mirror image morphology in the images. They also mention that just because two quasars have jets does not necessarily mean anything, as jets may be present in many quasars. They provide a resource for finding data on this topic.
  • #1
deSitter
10
0
Hello, could someone point out to me

1) Ironclad evidence of correlated light curves - and I mean a correlation that is beyond doubt - among lensed quasars

2) Morphological correspondence - e.g. corresponding jets - in images of lensed quasars.

I can find sketchy cases which may be correlated, but I would like to see direct and incontrovertible evidence of both light curve correlation that leaves no doubt, and mirror image morphology of the images.

Thanks in advance!

PS - just because two quasars have jets does not mean much, as jets may be characteristic of many if not all quasars. A real case of interest would be clearly mirror-imaged isophotes of the two images.

-drl
 
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  • #2
What exactly is a "correlated light curve"?
 
  • #3
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1. What is quasar lensing and how does it work?

Quasar lensing is a phenomenon where the strong gravitational pull of a massive object, such as a galaxy or a cluster of galaxies, bends and magnifies the light of a distant quasar. This effect is caused by the curvature of spacetime, which is predicted by Einstein's theory of general relativity. The light from the quasar is bent as it passes through the gravitational field of the massive object, resulting in multiple images of the quasar being observed.

2. How do scientists detect and measure quasar lensing?

Scientists use a technique called gravitational lensing to detect and measure the effects of quasar lensing. This involves observing the distortions in the shapes and positions of background objects, such as galaxies, caused by the gravitational pull of the massive object. By analyzing these distortions, scientists can determine the strength and location of the lensing object. They can also measure the time delay between the multiple images of the quasar to calculate the mass of the lensing object.

3. What types of evidence are considered "hard evidence" for quasar lensing?

There are several types of evidence that are considered "hard evidence" for quasar lensing. These include the observation of multiple images of a quasar, which can be confirmed by comparing their spectra and variability; the detection of time delays between the images; and the presence of arcs or rings of light around the lensing object, known as Einstein rings. These pieces of evidence provide strong support for the existence of quasar lensing.

4. How common is quasar lensing in the universe?

Quasar lensing is a relatively rare phenomenon, as it requires a precise alignment between the lensing object, the quasar, and the observer. However, it is believed that every galaxy has a massive object at its center, which has the potential to act as a lens. Therefore, it is estimated that about 1 in 1000 quasars are lensed by a galaxy or a cluster of galaxies.

5. What can we learn from studying quasar lensing?

Studying quasar lensing allows scientists to measure the mass and distribution of dark matter in the lensing object, which can provide insights into the formation and evolution of galaxies and galaxy clusters. It also allows for the study of the large-scale structure of the universe and the measurement of cosmological parameters, such as the Hubble constant. Additionally, quasar lensing can be used to study the properties of the lensing object, such as its size, shape, and composition, which can help us better understand the nature of these objects.

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