A scientist, using a telescope, sees arcs of light around a galaxy. In 3–5 sentences, explain the cause of the arcs of light.(4 points)

The arcs of light observed around a galaxy are caused by the phenomenon known as gravitational lensing. Gravitational lensing occurs when a massive object, such as a galaxy or a cluster of galaxies, bends the path of light as it travels through space. This bending of light creates distorted and magnified images of galaxies located behind the gravitational lens. These images appear as arcs due to the specific geometry and distribution of the mass causing the lensing effect.

The arcs of light around a galaxy seen through a telescope are caused by a phenomenon known as gravitational lensing. Gravitational lensing occurs when the gravitational field of a massive object, such as a galaxy cluster, bends and distorts the path of light from a background object, creating a lens-like effect. In this case, the arcs of light are formed due to the gravitational lensing of light from distant galaxies or quasars located behind the foreground galaxy. The gravitational field of the foreground galaxy acts as a lens, bending and magnifying the light and resulting in the observed arcs.

The arcs of light around the galaxy are most likely caused by a phenomenon called gravitational lensing. Gravitational lensing occurs when the gravity of a massive object, such as another galaxy, bends the path of light from a background object. In this case, the gravity of the foreground galaxy is bending the light from objects behind it, creating the observed arcs. By studying these arcs, scientists can gain valuable insights into the distribution of matter in the foreground galaxy and the cosmic structures surrounding it. This can help in understanding the nature of dark matter and the evolution of galaxies.