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  1. Home
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  3. Gravitational Lensing
Astrophysics

Gravitational Lensing

Definition

The bending of light from a distant source by the gravitational field of a massive intervening object. Predicted by general relativity, it can magnify, distort, or multiply images of distant galaxies. It is also used to detect dark matter.

Related Terms

Dark Matter

A hypothetical form of matter that does not emit, absorb, or reflect light. Its existence is inferred from gravitational...

Galaxy

A gravitationally bound system of stars, stellar remnants, interstellar gas, dust, and dark matter. Galaxies range from ...

General Relativity

Einstein's 1915 theory describing gravity as curvature of spacetime caused by mass and energy. Confirmed by light bendin...

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Full Glossary

Browse all 66+ space and astronomy terms.

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