Gravitational Wave Cosmology: Be Careful of the Black Hole Mass Spectrum
Abstract
Gravitational waves (GWs) from compact binary coalescences (CBCs) offer insights into the universe expansion. The spectral siren method, used without electromagnetic counterparts (EMC), infers cosmic expansion (Hubble constant) by relating detector and source frame masses of black hole (BH) mergers. However, heuristic mass models (broken power law, power law plus peak, multipeak) may introduce biases in the Hubble constant estimation, potentially up to 3 sigma with 2000 detected GW mergers. These biases stem from the models inability to consider redshift evolution and unexpected mass features. Future GW cosmology studies should employ adaptable source mass models to address these issues.
Turn this paper into a full lesson
ArcXiv compiles a staged curriculum from this paper: 8-12 lessons across beginner → advanced, synthesised section guides, visuals, flashcards, a quiz, exercises, and on-demand deep dives per section. Grounded in the abstract, never invented.