Algebraic Classification of Numerical Spacetimes and Black-Hole-Binary Remnants

In this paper we develop a technique for determining the algebraic classification of a numerical spacetime, possibly resulting from a generic black-hole-binary merger, using the Newman-Penrose Weyl scalars. We demonstrate these techniques for a test case involving a close binary with arbitrarily oriented spins and unequal masses. We find that, post merger, the spacetime quickly approaches Petrov type II, and only approaches type D on much longer timescales. These techniques allow us to begin to explore the validity of the "no-hair theorem" for generic merging-black-hole spacetimes.Comment: published versio

Orbital Evolution of Extreme-Mass-Ratio Black-Hole Binaries with Numerical Relativity

We perform the first fully nonlinear numerical simulations of black-hole binaries with mass ratios 100:1. Our technique for evolving such extreme mass ratios is based on the moving puncture approach with a new gauge condition and an optimal choice of the mesh refinement (plus large computational resources). We achieve a convergent set of results for simulations starting with a small nonspinning black hole just outside the ISCO that then performs over two orbits before plunging into the 100 times more massive black hole. We compute the gravitational energy and momenta radiated as well as the final remnant parameters and compare these quantities with the corresponding perturbative estimates. The results show a close agreement. We briefly discuss the relevance of this simulations for Advanced LIGO, third-generation ground based detectors, and LISA observations, and self-force computations.Comment: 4 pages, 4 figures, 3 tables. Matching published versio