The Non-vanishing Imprint of Gravitational Waves as the Result of Its Nonlinear Evolution in Space

Abstract

This paper focuses on the nonlinear self-interaction of gravitational waves and explores its impact on the spectrum of the resulting gravitational wave. While many authors primarily investigate the nonlinear effects within the framework of "gravitational memory," we take a different approach by conducting a comprehensive analysis of harmonic generation. Theoretical analysis indicates that higher harmonics do not possess suitable conditions for energy accumulation. However, our study presents intriguing evidence supporting the concept of "nonlinear gravitational memory": the conversion and accumulation of gravitational wave energy into a persistent metric deformation in the background space (specifically referred here to as zero harmonics). In simpler terms, a wave leaves a lasting imprint on the background space, even after the gravitational pulse subsides. Furthermore, our study estimates the significance of this effect and demonstrates that it should not be disregarded.