Why Does an Observer Not See Entering a Black Hole?

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In summary, there is a difficulty in reconciling the observation of an object entering the event horizon of a black hole between an observer and the person actually experiencing it. This is due to the concept of absolute time and the difference in the perception of time between the two observers. However, if one considers the possibility of distorted times in certain regions of space, it becomes easier to understand.
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Hello, I was wondering why an observer looking at an object entering the event horizon of a black hole would never really see it go through? Versus a person actually experiencing the ride.
 
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The main difficulty comes from the fact that we usually have a hard time getting rid of the idea of an absolute time.

The main point is that those two observers are moving in regions of spacetime that have, each "its own time". The two observations are hard to reconcile only while you try to have them "add up" in a way that makes the two time-frames "compatible" in an absolute sense (clearly, I'm not trying to be precise here, but only to help your intuition).

On the other hand, if you allow your model for "compatibility" to allow for really distorted times in some regions of space, you will find it easier to understand.
 
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ahhh, thank you
 

FAQ: Why Does an Observer Not See Entering a Black Hole?

1. Why can't an observer see an object entering a black hole?

When an object enters a black hole, it crosses the event horizon, which is the point of no return. This means that once an object crosses the event horizon, it is impossible for any information or light to escape from the black hole. Therefore, an observer outside the black hole cannot see the object entering it.

2. What happens to an object as it enters a black hole?

As an object enters a black hole, it experiences extreme gravitational forces that cause it to stretch and distort. This process is known as spaghettification, and it occurs because the gravitational pull near a black hole is much stronger at the object's feet than at its head.

3. Can an observer see the effects of an object entering a black hole?

Yes, an observer can see the effects of an object entering a black hole. As the object approaches the event horizon, it emits intense radiation, known as Hawking radiation, which can be detected by an observer. Additionally, the distortion of light and the extreme gravitational forces near the black hole can also be observed.

4. Why is it difficult to study black holes?

Black holes are difficult to study because they are invisible and do not emit any light. This makes it challenging for scientists to observe them directly. Instead, researchers rely on indirect methods, such as studying the effects of black holes on nearby objects, to gather information about these mysterious objects.

5. What happens to time and space near a black hole?

Near a black hole, the intense gravitational forces cause significant distortions in both time and space. Time near a black hole moves slower than in other regions of space, and space is also distorted, appearing to be curved and stretched. This phenomenon is known as gravitational time dilation and is a result of Einstein's theory of general relativity.

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