Investigate light in space as it encounters a large mass of matter. Learners discover the idea of gravitational lensing through an interactive activity. They adjust the size and location of the mass to see the effect on the path of light. Their conclusions include predictions of the view of the light from Earth.

Concepts

gravity, lenses, albert einstein

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Additional Tags

science

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Instructional Ideas

• Use the interactive activity to follow a lecture on gravitational lensing
• Have individuals sketch examples to describe the effect of the location of the matter and the size of the mass

Classroom Considerations

• Expects a basic understanding of the effect on light as it passes through a lens

• This content requires Adobe Flash to view

Pros

• Provides questions to guide the lesson 
• Includes an introduction with background information to prepare pupils for the activity

Cons

• None