The 2017 Nobel Prize in Physics for the detection of gravitational waves was shared by which scientists?

Introduction / Context:
In two thousand seventeen the Nobel Prize in Physics was awarded for the detection of gravitational waves, a major confirmation of a prediction from the theory of general relativity. The prize recognised key scientists associated with the LIGO experiment. This question checks whether you can correctly identify the group of laureates who shared this honour.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The year is two thousand seventeen.
• The Nobel Prize in Physics is for gravitational wave detection.
• Several scientists names are listed, along with the option All of the above.

Concept / Approach:
The Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences awarded the two thousand seventeen Nobel Prize in Physics jointly to Rainer Weiss, Barry C Barish and Kip S Thorne for decisive contributions to the LIGO detector and the observation of gravitational waves. Since all three names appear separately among the options, the correct choice must be All of the above. Recognising this pattern is common in multiple choice questions.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Recall that gravitational waves were detected by the LIGO collaboration. Step 2: Remember that three leading scientists, Weiss, Barish and Thorne, were named as Nobel laureates in two thousand seventeen. Step 3: Note that each of these names appears among the options. Step 4: Understand that if all three are Nobel winners, then a combined option All of the above will be correct. Step 5: Choose All of the above as the final answer and rule out None of these.

Verification / Alternative check:
As an alternative check, consider the roles of the three scientists. Rainer Weiss played a central role in the initial concept and design of the interferometer. Barry Barish provided leadership that turned the project into a large scale collaboration. Kip Thorne contributed to the theoretical understanding of gravitational waves and their astrophysical sources. These complementary roles explain why all three shared the Nobel Prize.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Barry Barish: Correct name but incomplete by itself because the prize was shared with two others.
Kip Thorne: Also a correct laureate, but again only one of the three recipients.
Rainer Weiss: Another correct recipient, but not the only one.
None of these: Clearly incorrect because the listed names are exactly those who received the prize.

Common Pitfalls:
Some learners may recognise one of the names and quickly select that option without noticing the combined All of the above choice. Others might confuse this prize with different physics awards given in other years. Always read all options carefully, especially when an all inclusive choice is provided, and confirm whether every listed individual fits the description in the question stem.

Final Answer:
The two thousand seventeen Nobel Prize in Physics for gravitational wave detection was shared by Rainer Weiss, Barry Barish and Kip Thorne, that is All of the above.