Metric of supermassive black holes

Thread starter Rothiemurchus
Start date Apr 9, 2007
Tags

Black holes Holes Metric

In summary, the conversation revolved around the topic of effective communication. The participants discussed the importance of being clear and concise in their communication, as well as the role of active listening in understanding others. They also emphasized the need for empathy and patience in communication, and how it can lead to better relationships and outcomes. Overall, the conversation highlighted the key elements of effective communication and its impact on personal and professional interactions.

Apr 9, 2007

Rothiemurchus

Do supermassive black holes have a schwarzschild metric?

Physics news on Phys.org

Apr 9, 2007

MeJennifer

Rothiemurchus said:

Do supermassive black holes have a schwarzschild metric?

Yes, as long as they don't rotate.

Apr 9, 2007

xantox

Gold Member

And as long as they are not charged, if charged black holes exist.

Last edited: Apr 9, 2007

1. What is a supermassive black hole?

A supermassive black hole is a type of black hole that is extremely large and has a mass that is millions or even billions of times greater than that of the sun. These black holes are found at the centers of most galaxies and play a crucial role in the formation and evolution of galaxies.

2. How are supermassive black holes measured?

The metric used to measure the mass of a supermassive black hole is called the Schwarzschild radius, which is the distance from the center of the black hole where the escape velocity is equal to the speed of light. The larger the Schwarzschild radius, the more massive the black hole is.

3. Can supermassive black holes be seen?

Unlike smaller black holes, which are invisible, supermassive black holes can be seen through their effects on surrounding matter. As matter gets pulled into the black hole, it heats up and emits radiation, making it visible to telescopes and other instruments.

4. How do we know supermassive black holes exist?

Scientists have observed the effects of supermassive black holes on their surrounding galaxies, such as the rotation of stars and gas clouds, as well as the emission of powerful jets of radiation. Additionally, gravitational waves, which were first detected in 2015, provide further evidence for the existence of supermassive black holes.

5. Do supermassive black holes pose a threat to Earth?

No, supermassive black holes do not pose a threat to Earth. Although they are incredibly powerful and can have a strong gravitational pull, they are located at vast distances from our planet and do not affect us in any significant way. However, their effects on the galaxies they reside in can have an impact on the formation and evolution of stars and planets within those galaxies.