Three tests of general relativity via Fermat's principle and the phase of Bessel functions

B. H. Lavenda

Published 2003-10-25Version 1

Fermat's principle applied to a flat metric in the plane yields the phase of a Bessel function in the periodic domain for a constant index of refraction. Gravitational forces cause the index of refraction to vary and lead to a modified phase of the Bessel function. A distinction is made between the forces that cause acceleration: the gravitational force affects the optical properties of the medium whereas the centrifugal force does not, the latter being built into the phase of oscillations of the Bessel function. The time delay in radar echoes from planets is determined from Fermat's principle where the velocity of light is the phase velocity and the index of refraction varies on account of the gravitational potential. The deflection of light by a massive body is shown to be produced by a quadrupole interaction, and the perihelion shift requires both the gravitational potential, producing a closed orbit, and the quadrupole, causing the perihelion to rotate.