On the Ambiguity in Relativistic Tidal Deformability

TL;DR

This paper discusses an inherent ambiguity in defining relativistic tidal deformability of neutron stars, which could impact future gravitational wave measurements and the understanding of neutron star microphysics.

Contribution

It introduces a new perspective on the ambiguity in relativistic tidal deformability and explores future implications for gravitational wave analysis.

Findings

Identifies an ambiguity in relativistic tidal deformability

Proposes a new framework to understand this ambiguity

Discusses future prospects for gravitational wave measurements

Abstract

The LIGO collaboration recently reported the first gravitational-wave constraints on the tidal deformability of neutron stars. I discuss an inherent ambiguity in the notion of relativistic tidal deformability that, while too small to affect the present measurement, may become important in the future. I propose a new way to understand the ambiguity and discuss future prospects for reliably linking observed gravitational waveforms to compact object microphysics.