Tests of General Relativity and Investigating Gravitational-Wave Emission from Binary Black Holes in Highly Eccentric Orbits and their Prospects for Black Hole Populations
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Lott, Tell Peter
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Abstract
This thesis investigates the profound influence of gravitational wave (GW) detection on both astrophysics and fundamental physics, a field revolutionized by LIGO's pioneering observations. I begin with the theoretical underpinnings of GWs, derived from Einstein's field equations, and describe the functioning of current detectors, such as LIGO and Virgo. A key emphasis is placed on the computational techniques for analyzing GW data, particularly the novel Bayesian wavelet-based method that facilitates model-independent analysis. My research also examines various consistency tests applied to GW signals, providing insights into their effectiveness in detecting deviations from General Relativity. Additionally, the thesis presents a Bayesian analysis of numerical waveforms from hyperbolic encounters of binary black holes, estimating detection rates for upcoming observatories. I conclude with a study of stellar black holes within active galactic nucleus disks, highlighting how high-eccentricity encounters can yield detectable GW emissions.
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2024-12-09
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Dissertation (PhD)