Exploring Stellar Black Holes: Size, Location, and Physical Characteristics

In summary, the conversation is about a request for information on existing black holes, specifically their size, location, and physical characteristics. The moderator provides a helpful wiki link and another participant shares a web page on stellar mass black holes and their accretion disks.
  • #1
DarioC
255
19
[Moderator's note: Spun off from previous thread on different topic.]

I'm still a bit new here and haven't studied much astronomy (being an electronics dude) so can anyone give me a good link(s) for what we know about existing black holes. That is size, location, and other physical characteristics of those we have discovered so far.

Thanks DC
 
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  • #2
DarioC said:
I'm still a bit new here and haven't studied much astronomy (being an electronics dude) so can anyone give me a good link(s) for what we know about existing black holes. That is size, location, and other physical characteristics of those we have discovered so far. Hope this isn't too far off the subject.

Thanks DC
Here's a useful wiki link for starters.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_black_holes
 
Last edited by a moderator:
  • #3
DarioC said:
I'm still a bit new here and haven't studied much astronomy (being an electronics dude) so can anyone give me a good link(s) for what we know about existing black holes. That is size, location, and other physical characteristics of those we have discovered so far.

This web page looks at stellar mass black holes and their accretion disks in binary systems-

http://mintaka.sdsu.edu/faculty/orosz/web/
 
Last edited by a moderator:

FAQ: Exploring Stellar Black Holes: Size, Location, and Physical Characteristics

What is a black hole?

A black hole is a region in space where the gravitational pull is so strong that nothing, including light, can escape from it. This is because the black hole has a very strong gravitational field, which is created by a large amount of mass packed into a very small space.

How are black holes formed?

Black holes are formed when a massive star runs out of nuclear fuel and collapses under its own weight. This collapse creates a singularity, a point of infinite density and zero volume, surrounded by an event horizon, which is the point of no return for anything that enters the black hole's gravitational field.

Can we see black holes?

We cannot directly see black holes because they do not emit any light. However, we can observe their effects on the surrounding matter, such as the distortion of light from stars and gas that is orbiting around the black hole.

How do we study black holes?

We study black holes through various methods, including observing their effects on surrounding matter, using gravitational lensing to detect their presence, and detecting the radiation emitted from their accretion disks. We also use mathematical models and simulations to better understand their behavior.

What is the significance of studying black holes?

Studying black holes helps us better understand the laws of physics, including gravity, space, and time. They also have important implications for the evolution of galaxies and the universe as a whole. Additionally, studying black holes can lead to advancements in space exploration and technology.

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