Why does a singularity have to exist?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on the existence of singularities in black holes, specifically questioning why a point of infinite space-time curvature is necessary according to General Relativity. Participants explore the implications of singularities, their mathematical foundations, and the potential for alternative models.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions the necessity of a singularity, asking how infinite gravitational constant (G) arises and suggesting that it may be a mathematical implication.
  • Another participant asserts that singularities are a consequence of General Relativity's equations, but emphasizes that their existence in reality is uncertain and may be an artifact of incomplete physics knowledge.
  • Some participants propose that a quantum theory of gravity could potentially resolve the singularity issue.
  • A participant references a similar thread for additional context, indicating ongoing discussions about the topic.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the existence of singularities, with some believing they may not exist in reality, while others accept their mathematical necessity in current theories. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the implications of these viewpoints.

Contextual Notes

The discussion highlights limitations in current understanding, particularly concerning the intersection of General Relativity and quantum mechanics, and the dependence on mathematical formulations that may not fully capture physical reality.

eldred
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Why, at the center of a black hole, does the need to be a point where space-time curvature is infinite? I understand that black holes scale with consumed matter, and that the point has 0 density but how do we get infinite G?

I'm just an amateur but because this might just be a mathematical implication, and I'd love it if you threw an equation for me to try and pick apart. Also, why wouldn't a model without a singularity work?
 
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The singularity is a result of the way the equations work out in General Relativity. Whether a singularity exists in real life is unknown. A number of people believe that the singularity is simply an artifact of our incomplete knowledge of physics at that scale and that a quantum theory of gravity would solve this problem.

Put simply, a singularity doesn't have to exist. It may or may not exist in reality.
 
Yep I had posted in the wrong forum. Thanks!
 

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