Mass of Black Holes: Measuring the Unmeasurable?

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SUMMARY

The mass of a black hole can be measured using gravitational effects on nearby objects. By placing a test mass, such as a 1 kg lump of metal, into orbit around the black hole, one can calculate its mass based on the orbital dynamics. Additionally, observing the velocities of stars orbiting a suspected black hole provides another method for estimating its mass. These techniques leverage the fundamental principles of gravity to derive measurements that are otherwise unobservable.

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  • Understanding of gravitational physics
  • Familiarity with orbital mechanics
  • Basic knowledge of astrophysics
  • Experience with observational astronomy techniques
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  • Research methods for calculating mass using orbital dynamics
  • Study the principles of gravitational interactions in astrophysics
  • Explore observational techniques for measuring stellar velocities
  • Learn about the role of black holes in galaxy formation and dynamics
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Astronomers, astrophysicists, students studying gravitational physics, and anyone interested in the methods of measuring celestial objects.

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Sorry if this is in the wrong topic area but I'm really wondering this. Would there be any way to measure the mass of a black hole? This is a really interesting thing that I would like to know about. Thanks to anyone that helps!:smile:
 
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Welcome to PF!

There are many ways to measure the mass, and some are deceptively simple.

A black hole of a given mass behaves gravitationally just like any other kind of object with the same mass.

All you need is to do is put a test mass -- say, 1 kg lump of metal -- into orbit around the hole. By observing the lump's orbit, you can calculate the black hole's mass.

You can also use what Nature gives you: stars. By watching the speeds at which stars orbit a suspected black hole, we can estimate the mass of that black hole.

- Warren
 
Thank you vey much for that. I've been looking everywhere and now I finally know and I can ace my report! Thanks!:smile: :smile:
 

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