On the Ionization of a Keplerian Binary System by Periodic Gravitational Radiation

TL;DR

This paper explores how periodic gravitational waves can cause ionization of binary systems by analyzing the dynamics of their orbits and relating it to chaos theory, specifically Arnold diffusion.

Contribution

It introduces a novel theoretical framework connecting gravitational ionization with KAM theory and Arnold diffusion, expanding understanding of binary system stability under gravitational radiation.

Findings

Periodic gravitational radiation can induce ionization in binary systems.

The process is related to Arnold diffusion and chaotic orbital behavior.

The study provides a theoretical basis for gravitational ionization mechanisms.

Abstract

The gravitational ionization of a Keplerian binary system via normally incident periodic gravitational radiation of definite helicity is discussed. The periodic orbits of the planar tidal equation are investigated on the basis of degenerate continuation theory. The relevance of the Kolmogorov-Arnold-Moser theory to the question of gravitational ionization is elucidated, and it is conjectured that the process of ionization is closely related to the Arnold diffusion of the perturbed system.