Q. With reference to gravitational lensing, consider the following statements:
1.It is an effect of Einstein’s theory of general relativity – simply put, mass bends light.
2.The lensing helps astronomers to detect the distribution of dark matter in the Universe.
Which of the statements given above is/are incorrect?

[A] 1 only

[B] 2 only

[C] Both 1 and 2

[D] Neither 1 nor 2

Answer: C
Notes:

Both the statements are correct.

A gravitational lens can occur when a huge amount of matter, like a cluster of galaxies, creates a gravitational field that distorts and magnifies the light from distant galaxies that are behind it but in the same line of sight.

The effect is like looking through a giant magnifying glass.

Significance: This effect allows researchers to study the details of early galaxies too far away to be seen with current technology and telescopes.

First Predicted by: This effect was predicted to exist by Albert Einstein’s General Theory of Relativity in the early 20th century.

Source: Indian Express

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