An Optical Scalar Approach to Weak Gravitation Lensing

Author Information

Louis Bianchini

Abstract/Description

We assume a thick gravitational lens governed by a Baltz n=1 matter density model. From the gravitational potential we then derive expressions for a Weyl tensor component and Ricci tensor component. A perturbative approach is taken to solve for the convergence and shear as given by Sach’s equation. By applying the geodesic deviation equation to a bundle of light rays with our expressions for the optical scalars we are able to derive expressions for the image shape and size at any point along the path from source to observer, in the case of an axially symmetric lens and source.

Note on the Author

Louis Bianchini will graduate summa cum laude in May of 2009, with a Bachelors of Science in Physics and Mathematics. Louis conducted this research, which was funded by the Adrian Tinsley summer program, with his mentor Dr. Thomas Kling of the Physics Department. This work was presented at the 2009 National Conference of Undergraduate Research.

Recommended Citation

Bianchini, Louis (2009). An Optical Scalar Approach to Weak Gravitation Lensing. Undergraduate Review, 5, 64-70.
Available at: https://vc.bridgew.edu/undergrad_rev/vol5/iss1/14

Rights Statement

Articles published in The Undergraduate Review are the property of the individual contributors and may not be reprinted, reformatted, repurposed or duplicated, without the contributor’s consent.