Undergrad Black holes and extra dimensions

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String theory suggests the existence of extra dimensions beyond our familiar 4D spacetime, which may provide insights into the singularity at the center of black holes. While there is no definitive proof of these extra dimensions, they could potentially exist in a form that is imperceptible to light and matter. Some theories propose that high-frequency gravity waves might interact with these dimensions, possibly linking to parallel universes. Stephen Hawking's support for M-Theory positions it as a leading candidate for a comprehensive theory of the universe. The discussion remains speculative, emphasizing the need for further exploration in this area of theoretical physics.
AuntyMatter
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We often hear about string theory requiring extra dimensions over and above our 4D spacetime. Does this shed any light on the singularity which is supposed to exist at the centre of a black hole? Does our normal spacetime simply join the other dimensions in their hidden (curled-up) form?
This is probably nonsense, but if I don't ask I won't know for sure.
 
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AuntyMatter said:
We often hear about string theory requiring extra dimensions over and above our 4D spacetime. Does this shed any light on the singularity which is supposed to exist at the centre of a black hole?
I've never heard any such suggestion. Why would it?

Does our normal spacetime simply join the other dimensions in their hidden (curled-up) form?
I believe so, but I don't know much about that stuff.
 
String Theory and its offshoot, M-Theory, lead to extra dimensions and parallel universes. There is no proof of either. If the extra dimensions exist, they could be right around you, not just at black holes, and they could be large, not small, but they are inpenetrable by light or matter or electromagnetic waves; however, at black holes, it is postulated that high frequency gravity waves may be able to penetrate these higher order dimensions that lead to parallel (brane) universes. Just speculation , not theory, but Hawking is a big supporter of M-Theory, which he claims is the only candidate for a complete theory of the universe. As I understand it from my readings, otherwise, I don't know much more.
 
Thanks to both of you for your answers
 
AuntyMatter said:
We often hear about string theory requiring extra dimensions over and above our 4D spacetime. Does this shed any light on the singularity which is supposed to exist at the centre of a black hole? Does our normal spacetime simply join the other dimensions in their hidden (curled-up) form?
This is probably nonsense, but if I don't ask I won't know for sure.

Singularities in string theory, Edward Witten

https://arxiv.org/abs/hep-th/0212349
 

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