3
$\begingroup$

I have a basic question I can't seem to find anything on (I keep hearing about how gravitational waves and gravitational lensing were both predicted by Einstein).

We all know about the gravitational lensing effect as it relates to light. Would a gravitational wave also be subject to having its path "bent" around massive objects/following the curvature of space-time, or would it be able to pass "straight" through? (Or do we know?)

Improve this question
$\endgroup$
3
  • 2
    $\begingroup$ Yes, of course! $\endgroup$
    – user106422
    Commented Feb 13, 2016 at 2:34
  • 2
    $\begingroup$ This paper analyses strong gravitational lensing effects on gravitational waves: arxiv.org/abs/1309.5731 $\endgroup$
    – user106422
    Commented Feb 13, 2016 at 2:35
  • 1
    $\begingroup$ Roughly speaking, a gravitational wave carries energy and momentum and gravitation acts on everything that has energy and momentum, so a gravitational wave should be deflected similarly to light. $\endgroup$
    – Robin Ekman
    Commented Feb 14, 2016 at 2:02

2 Answers 2

Reset to default
1
$\begingroup$

Of course yes, like anything belonging to the universe, but only if the perturbation is not alot smaller than the wavelength, as for any wave meeting an obstacle.

Improve this answer
$\endgroup$
0
$\begingroup$

May be not, curvature of space-time itself is gravity (or acceleration). Gravity should not effect gravity wave, just like light (EM wave) would not be effected by electromagnetism.

Improve this answer
$\endgroup$

Your Answer

By clicking “Post Your Answer”, you agree to our terms of service and acknowledge you have read our privacy policy.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.