Which of the following configurations is most likely to produce an Einstein ring?
A) a massive galaxy in the center of a spherical galaxy cluster
B) a massive galaxy in the center of a football-shaped galaxy cluster
C) a distant galaxy situated behind a football-shaped galaxy cluster
D) a distant galaxy situated behind a spherical galaxy cluster

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A distant galaxy situated behind a spherical galaxy cluster is most likely to produce an Einstein ring as the gravitational lensing effect produced by the massive cluster will distort and magnify the light from the background galaxy in a circular pattern, creating an Einstein ring. In option A and B, the presence of a massive galaxy in the center of the cluster may cause gravitational lensing, but it would not necessarily produce an Einstein ring. Option C only mentions a football-shaped galaxy cluster which may cause gravitational lensing, but it does not guarantee the formation of an Einstein ring.

Which of the Following Configurations Is Most Likely to Produce