Question

Gravitational lensing is a phenomenon exhibited by the huge cosmic bodies such as galaxies and galaxy clusters such that their gravitational field

• A. bends light like a lens.
• B. is in the shape of a lens.
• C. forms lens-like objects.
• D. forms objects from which lens-like substances can be prepared.

Answer 1

The correct option is A bends light like a lens.

Answer is A

Gravitational lensing works in an analogous way and is an effect of Einstein's theory of general relativity – simply put, mass bends light. The gravitational field of a massive object will extend far into space, and cause light rays passing close to that object (and thus through its gravitational field) to be bent and refocused somewhere else. The more massive the object, the stronger its gravitational field and hence the greater the bending of light rays - just like using denser materials to make optical lenses results in a greater amount of refraction.