A team of quantum physicists from Ben-Gurion University in Israel formulated a theory that challenges Albert Einstein’s famous theory of relativityby proposing an alternative model for black holes based on the “frozen star” concept.
This new hypothesis seeks to resolve paradoxes that current theory cannot explainthus calling into question one of the fundamental principles of modern physics.
A new approach to the “singularity” that challenges the theory of relativity
At the heart of this revolutionary theory is concept of singularityunderstood in physics as the point at which the laws of space-time cease to apply.
According to the theory of relativity, the singularity is the epicenter of black holeswhere gravitational forces become infinite and space-time curves limitless. This interpretation has perplexed physicists for decades, because it implies that at some point, The theories that describe our universe stop working.
- Event horizon: This is the boundary that surrounds a black hole, and according to Einstein, nothing can escape, not even light.
- Hawking’s paradox: suggests that, due to quantum effects, some particles can escape the event horizon as radiation, which contradicts the idea that everything is trapped in a black hole.
This contradiction has posed a conundrum in modern physics, where the concepts of relativity and quantum mechanics are not yet completely harmonized.
The “frozen star”: an alternative theory to black holes
The team of Israeli scientists proposes a revolutionary idea: black holes may not be suchbut it could be an exotic quantum object they call “frozen star”.
These stars, according to the model, would have characteristics similar to those of black holes. However, it would not take into account the theoretical disadvantages linked to the singularity and the event horizon.
Characteristics of frozen stars
- They do not contain a singularity within them, which eliminates the notion of a point of infinite density at their center.
- They do not present an event horizon as described by current theory.
They would allow certain particles to escape their extreme gravitational attraction, thus providing a solution to Hawking’s paradox.
If this hypothesis is confirmed, frozen stars would not only resolve some of the most enduring dilemmas of black hole theory, but also offer a more exploitable structure from quantum physics.
Impact on the theory of relativity
Ram Brustein, one of the lead authors of the study, published in ‘Physical examinationemphasized that this quantum theory would have a transformative impact. “If frozen stars are real, then Einstein’s theory of relativity must be fundamentally changed,” Brustein said.
In addition, he indicated that they are working to study the internal structure of these stars and their differences with neutron stars, a type of star also characterized by its high density.
This new model opens up the possibility of making experimentally verifiable predictions, which is not possible in the case of singularities. According to Brustein, “if our predictions are correct, we will have to reevaluate not only the theory of relativity, but also our understanding of gravity and the universe.”
What implications does this discovery have?
This alternative model calls into question the fundamental principles of physics:
- Redefining gravity: By modifying the concept of a black hole, the theory implies that gravity in these extreme quantum objects might behave differently than expected.
- Questioning general relativity: The lack of a singularity and event horizon calls into question the validity of the theory of relativity in situations of extreme gravity.
- New understanding of the universe: If this quantum theory is correct, quantum physics and relativity could be reconciled in certain aspects, thus opening the door to new models on the structure of the cosmos.
The development of this quantum model has also sparked debate in the scientific community, since Einstein’s theory is one of the pillars of modern physics. However, advances in quantum physics and discoveries in cosmology suggest that our understanding of the universe is constantly evolving and may give rise to new theories answering still unresolved questions.
