Abstract
Two programs were created to visualize the effect of rotating (Kerr) black holes on their surrounding spacetime. The first program, PHOTON ORBITS, numerically integrates the null geodesics of Kerr spacetime and displays the trajectories of light rays in an interactive 3D environment. The second program, CAMERA, numerically integrates the null geodesics and determines the distortion of both natural and abstract background images. These programs provide visual evidence for Einstein rings, frame, dragging, and the warping of spacetime near a black hole. In addition, they demonstrate that the distortion caused by a Kerr black hole is dependent on the angle of its spin axis with respect to the source.
Advisor
Lindner, John
Department
Physics
Recommended Citation
Walker, Lisa May, "Spacetime Whirlpools" (2007). Senior Independent Study Theses. Paper 3469.
https://openworks.wooster.edu/independentstudy/3469
Publication Date
2007
Degree Granted
Bachelor of Arts
Document Type
Senior Independent Study Thesis
© Copyright 2007 Lisa May Walker