Published online by Cambridge University Press: 24 April 2025
We consider the deflection of light by the Sun (or a massive object) in general relativity. We first find it by analogy of the geodesic equation with the motion of light in a medium with small, position-dependent index of refraction, and then by the formal method of the Hamilton–Jacobi equation, which is first reviewed, before being used. Finally, we compare with the special relativity result, and find the famous ½ factor distinguishing between the two.
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