Can Photons Create Black Holes?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on whether a Schwarzschild radius can be defined for photons, which are massless particles. Participants argue that the concept of Schwarzschild radius applies only to particles with rest mass, indicating a fundamental conflict between quantum theory and general relativity. The consensus suggests that defining a Schwarzschild radius for photons is not meaningful due to their lack of rest mass, thus reinforcing the distinction between massless and massive particles in the context of black hole physics.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Schwarzschild radius in general relativity
  • Knowledge of massless particles, specifically photons
  • Familiarity with the principles of quantum theory
  • Basic concepts of black hole physics
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the implications of massless particles in general relativity
  • Study the relationship between quantum theory and general relativity
  • Explore the concept of black holes and their formation
  • Investigate alternative theories that reconcile quantum mechanics with gravity
USEFUL FOR

Physicists, astrophysicists, and students of theoretical physics interested in the intersection of quantum mechanics and general relativity.

trini
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Question, is it meanigful to define a schwarzchild radius to a photon, or does this concept apply only to particles with rest mass?
 
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I suspect that at this level you have a conflict between quantum theory and gen. rel. so the question can't be answered.
 

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