Physics question about black holes and determing their mass?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating the mass of a black hole with a Schwarzschild radius of 15.4 km using the equation Rsch = 2GM/c². The user attempted to isolate mass (M) but encountered confusion regarding the relationship between the calculated mass and solar masses. The correct interpretation involves determining the ratio of the black hole's mass to the solar mass, defined as 1.988435×10³⁰ kilograms. The user seeks clarification on whether the mass is 2, 3, or 0.5 solar masses.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of the Schwarzschild radius concept
  • Familiarity with the equation Rsch = 2GM/c²
  • Knowledge of solar mass as a unit of measurement
  • Basic principles of astrophysics and mass calculations
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of the Schwarzschild radius in general relativity
  • Learn how to convert astronomical masses into solar masses
  • Explore the implications of black hole mass on gravitational effects
  • Research methods for measuring black hole masses in astrophysics
USEFUL FOR

Astronomy students, astrophysicists, and anyone interested in black hole physics and mass calculations.

Hannahj1
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Homework Statement


a black hole has schwarzschild radius of 15.4km what is the mass of the black hole in terms of the suns mass?

Homework Equations


Rsch = 2GM/c^2

The Attempt at a Solution


I plugged values into the equation and isolated for M and it gave me a different answer. Idk how the suns mass relates to the equation/answer
 
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I think they want the ratio so you know the BH mass and you can find the suns mass and then compute the ratio.

Is it 2 solar masses or 3 or even 1/2... ?
 
In astronomy, "one solar mass" is a unit of mass = 1.988435×1030 kilograms. The sun's mass is "one solar mass". For example, the star Arcturus has a mass of 2.3*1030 kg - 1.1 solar masses

Does that help?
 

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