How are black holes identified?

Question

Claire Anctil · Accepted Answer

Black holes does not emit any radiation.

We can determine the location of a black hole by measuring the orbiting stars' velocities. If one of the binary is a black hole, material from the red giant will fall into the black hole, crushing the matter at the event horizon and emitting X-rays due to the high temperature.

HIX Tutor · Answer

undefined Great question! Let’s think about it step by step.

1. **Look at the Stars**: Scientists first look at stars near something that might be a black hole. Why do you think the stars could help us?

2. **Watch for Movement**: If those stars are moving around fast, it might mean something heavy is nearby. What heavy thing do you think it could be?

3. **Check for X-rays**: Sometimes, black holes pull in gas from space. This gas gets very hot and makes X-rays. How do you think scientists can detect those X-rays?

4. **Use Telescopes**: Scientists use special telescopes to see the X-rays and the stars. How do you think telescopes help us look at faraway things?

5. **Find Sound Waves**: They might also listen for waves when two black holes crash. What do you think happens when they crash?

By using these steps, scientists can find black holes even if they can’t see them directly! What part do you find most interesting?

John Alexander · Answer

undefined A number of techniques are used to identify black holes, such as measuring the gravitational pull they exert on neighboring objects, spotting radiation released when material falls into them, and observing the distorted light from nearby stars or galaxies.