Did Einstein's Theory of Relativity Predict the Mass of Binary Stars?

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In summary, scientists have used gravitational lensing to accurately measure the mass and physical sizes of a white dwarf and red dwarf in a binary star system. This, combined with data from Kepler and Einstein's theory of relativity, has improved our understanding of binary star evolution. Additionally, the detection of B-mode polarization in the cosmic microwave background supports the validity of general relativity and rules out alternative theories. This detection is significant as it is believed to come from gravitational waves.
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audioloop
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Einstein reconfirmed

"In the new Kepler study, scientists used the gravitational lensing to determine the mass of the white dwarf. By combining this information with all the data they acquired, the scientists were also able to measure accurately the mass of the red dwarf and the physical sizes of both stars. Kepler's data and Einstein's theory of relativity have together led to a better understanding of how binary stars evolve"



http://iopscience.iop.org/0004-637X/767/2/111/

http://arxiv.org/pdf/1304.1165.pdf
 
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Detection of B-mode Polarization in the Cosmic Microwave Background with Data from the South Pole Telescope
http://arxiv.org/pdf/1307.5830v1.pdf

modes B polarization comes from gravitational waves.
 
  • #5
Thanks. The detection of B polarization is very significant if I'm not mistaken.
 

1. How did Einstein's Theory of Relativity predict the mass of binary stars?

Einstein's Theory of Relativity, specifically his general theory of relativity, predicts the mass of binary stars through the concept of gravitational lensing. This theory states that the mass of an object can warp the space-time around it, causing light to bend as it passes through. In the case of binary stars, the gravitational pull between the two stars causes the space-time around them to warp, leading to observable changes in the light emitted from the stars. By studying these changes, scientists can calculate the mass of the stars.

2. Can Einstein's Theory of Relativity accurately predict the mass of any type of binary star?

Yes, Einstein's Theory of Relativity can accurately predict the mass of any type of binary star, as long as the gravitational pull between the two stars is strong enough to cause significant space-time warping. This includes binary systems with two main sequence stars, white dwarfs, neutron stars, and black holes.

3. Has Einstein's Theory of Relativity been confirmed by observations of binary star systems?

Yes, Einstein's Theory of Relativity has been confirmed by numerous observations of binary star systems. For example, in 1919, a total solar eclipse allowed for the observation of the bending of starlight around the sun, providing strong evidence for the theory. Additionally, modern technology has allowed for more precise measurements of binary star systems, further confirming the predictions of the theory.

4. Are there any limitations to using Einstein's Theory of Relativity to predict the mass of binary stars?

While Einstein's Theory of Relativity has been highly successful in predicting the mass of binary stars, it does have limitations. One limitation is that it does not account for the effects of dark matter, which can significantly impact the dynamics of binary star systems. Additionally, the theory does not take into account quantum mechanics, which may be necessary to fully understand the behavior of binary stars.

5. How does the mass of binary stars impact their orbital motion?

The mass of binary stars plays a crucial role in determining their orbital motion. In general, the greater the mass of the stars, the stronger their gravitational pull on each other, leading to a shorter orbital period. This means that the more massive the binary stars are, the faster they will orbit around each other. Additionally, the mass ratio between the two stars can also affect their orbital motion, with more massive stars exerting a stronger gravitational pull on their smaller companion.

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