Observing Black Hole Collisions: Time Dilation Explained

In summary, when an object approaches a black hole, time dilation slows the event down for an observer outside the black hole, making it appear as if nothing ever crosses the event horizon. However, this is only true for objects with negligible mass compared to the black hole. For massive objects or multiple objects falling into the black hole at the same time, this assumption does not hold. Additionally, the ability to observe black hole collisions depends on the choice of synchronization convention used.
  • #1
imsmooth
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When something approaches black hole time dilation slows the event down from our frame of reference such that nothing seems to cross the event horizon. How is it then we can observe two black holes colliding? From our frame of reference wouldn’t it seem the event never happens?
 
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  • #2
imsmooth said:
When something approaches black hole time dilation slows the event down from our frame of reference such that nothing seems to cross the event horizon.
This is only true for an object with negligible mass, compared to the black hole mass, so the black hole horizon can be assumed to be static. For massive objects or lots of small masses falling in at the same time, the above assumption doesn't hold anymore.
 
  • #3
imsmooth said:
from our frame of reference such that nothing seems to cross the event horizon
More precisely, using one particular standard of synchronization, there is never a time over here which is judged to be simultaneous with a horizon crossing event over there.

That says more about the choice of synchronization convention than it says about whether black hole collisions can occur.
 
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1. What is time dilation and how does it relate to black hole collisions?

Time dilation is a phenomenon in which time appears to pass slower for an observer who is moving at high speeds or in a strong gravitational field. In the case of black hole collisions, the immense gravitational forces cause time to slow down for objects and observers near the event horizon.

2. How do scientists observe black hole collisions?

Scientists use a variety of tools and techniques to observe black hole collisions, including telescopes, gravitational wave detectors, and simulations. These allow them to detect the gravitational waves and other signals produced by the collision and study the effects of time dilation.

3. What are the implications of time dilation in black hole collisions?

The effects of time dilation in black hole collisions can provide valuable insights into the nature of gravity and the behavior of matter in extreme conditions. It also helps scientists better understand the properties of black holes and how they interact with other objects in the universe.

4. Can time dilation be observed in other phenomena besides black hole collisions?

Yes, time dilation can be observed in many other phenomena, such as near the event horizon of a black hole, in high-speed travel, and in experiments involving atomic clocks. It is a fundamental aspect of Einstein's theory of relativity and has been confirmed through various experiments and observations.

5. Is time travel possible through black hole collisions and time dilation?

While the concept of time travel is a popular topic in science fiction, it is currently not possible through black hole collisions and time dilation. Time dilation only affects the perception of time for observers and objects near the black hole, but it does not allow for traveling back in time. The laws of physics, as we currently understand them, do not allow for time travel.

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