What evidence supports the predicted existence of gravitational waves?
A)Gravitational waves are frequently and easily detected by large telescopes.
B)Gravitational waves have been detected by observing their effect on large masses suspended on Earth.
C)The orbit of a star system consisting of two neutron stars is slowly decaying,suggesting that energy is being carried away by gravitational waves.
D)The energy generated by gravitational waves from the Sun can be seen as it is absorbed by Jupiter.
E)Photographs of spacetime show the gravitational waves as ripples that are clearly visible.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The observed decay in orbit of the neutron star system is a clear indication that energy is being carried away by gravitational waves, thus supporting their predicted existence. A, D and E are incorrect because they either suggest gravitational waves can be easily observed or that they create visible effects when this is not the case. B is not necessarily incorrect but does not provide concrete evidence for the existence of gravitational waves.

What Evidence Supports the Predicted Existence of Gravitational Waves