How is light affected by the gravity of a black hole?

[Oliver3.141]

Hello! I am new to this forum, but I'll give it a shot.
It is my understanding that photons have no mass- but that light is still pulled by the gravity of a black hole. How can something without a mass, and therefore, gravity, be pulled by the gravity of another object? Any insight would be appreciated. I am still just beginning in my physics education, so please correct any errors I have made.

 

[Dale]

Hi Oliver3.141 welcome to PF,

In general relativity (the theory that describes this) gravity comes from the fact that energy and momentum and pressure all curve spacetime. Light travels through spacetime, so its path can be influenced by gravity. Also, light has energy and momentum and pressure, so it can produce gravity too.

 

[ZapperZ]

This is such a common question, it has been covered by our FAQs:

https://www.physicsforums.com/threads/why-are-massless-photons-affected-by-gravity.511173/

Zz.

 

[Oliver3.141]

Thank you for your input! :)