Hawking Evaporation is a theoretical process proposed by physicist Stephen Hawking in 1974, which describes how black holes can lose mass and eventually evaporate over time. This phenomenon arises from the principles of quantum mechanics and general relativity, particularly near the event horizon of a black hole. According to quantum theory, particle-antiparticle pairs can spontaneously form in empty space; when this occurs near the event horizon, one particle may fall into the black hole while the other escapes. The escaping particle is detected as radiation, now known as Hawking radiation, leading to a gradual decrease in the black hole's mass.
The rate of this mass loss is inversely proportional to the mass of the black hole, meaning smaller black holes evaporate faster than larger ones. Over astronomical timescales, this process could result in the complete evaporation of black holes, potentially leaving behind only a remnant of their initial mass. Hawking Evaporation raises profound questions about the nature of information and the fate of matter in the universe, contributing to ongoing debates in theoretical physics.
Start your personalized study experience with acemate today. Sign up for free and find summaries and mock exams for your university.