There are two kinds of systems in which astronomers have found such compact, massive, dark objects: the centers of galaxies (including perhaps our own Milky Way Galaxy), and X-ray-emitting binary systems in our own Galaxy (internet 1). ... However, two very recent discoveries have been made that strongly support the hypothesis that these systems do indeed contain black holes. ... The equations of general relativity have the mathematical property that they're symmetric in time. In other words, any solution to the equations can be taken reversed so that time flows backwards rather than f...

• Word Count: 3066
• Approx Pages: 12
• Has Bibliography

Applying the Einstein Field Equations to collapsing stars, Kurt Schwarzschild discovered the critical radius for a given mass at which matter would collapse into an infinitely dense state known as a singularity. ... Although many physicists doubted the existence of gravitational waves, physical evidence was presented when American researchers observed a binary pulsar system that was thought to consist of two neutron stars orbiting each other closely and rapidly. ... In other words, the stars were spiraling toward each other, and by the exact amount predicted if the system were losing...

• Word Count: 3068
• Approx Pages: 12
• Grade Level: High School

Applying the Einstein Field Equations to collapsing stars, Kurt Schwarzschild discovered the critical radius for a given mass at which matter would collapse into an infinitely dense state known as a singularity. ... Although many physicists doubted the existence of gravitational waves, physical evidence was presented when American researchers observed a binary pulsar system that was thought to consist of two neutron stars orbiting each other closely and rapidly. ... In other words, the stars were spiraling toward each other, and by the exact amount predicted if the system were losing energy by...

• Word Count: 3056
• Approx Pages: 12
• Has Bibliography