What happens to matter falling into a black hole?

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In summary, the speed of matter falling into a black hole is relative to the reference frame of the observer. With respect to stationary observers, in-falling objects approach the speed of light near the event horizon. However, for remote observers, the objects appear to slow down and eventually stop due to gravitational redshift. Ultimately, matter does not stop and is pulled towards the singularity.
  • #1
vorcil
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Does the gravitational force of black holes pull matter in at speeds faster than the speed of light? (when the matter has passed the event horizon that is?)

Or does the matter just stop moving out and in? and stop where it is?

Or do we not know anything about this just yet... which I'm assuming
 
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  • #2
As in all relativity, when you speak of velocities you must specify with respect to whom you are measuring these velocities. For example, with respect to shell observers, in-falling objects approach the speed of light as they approach the event horizon. Since there are no stationary observers within the EH, defining velocities becomes even more ambiguous. Matter certainly doesn't stop, it is destined to end up at the singularity.
 
  • #3
Nabeshin is correct. Weirdly enough, remote observers perceive that objects falling into a black hole slow and eventually 'freeze' as they approach the event horizon due to gravitational redshift.
 

Related to What happens to matter falling into a black hole?

1. What is a black hole?

A black hole is a region in space where the gravitational pull is so strong that nothing, including light, can escape from it. It is formed when a massive star dies and its core collapses in on itself.

2. How big are black holes?

Black holes can vary in size, but the smallest ones are about the size of a city, while the largest ones can be billions of times more massive than our sun.

3. How are black holes detected?

Black holes cannot be seen directly, but their presence is detected through their interaction with other matter in their surroundings. This can include the emission of high-energy radiation or the gravitational influence on nearby objects.

4. Can anything escape from a black hole?

No, nothing can escape from a black hole once it has passed the event horizon, which is the point of no return. However, some particles can escape through a process called Hawking radiation, which is a result of quantum effects near the event horizon.

5. Are black holes dangerous?

Black holes are not inherently dangerous to anything outside of their immediate surroundings. However, their immense gravitational pull can have a significant impact on their surrounding environment, such as disrupting the orbits of nearby stars and planets.

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