Astronomers Seek Binary Supermassive Black Holes in Galactic Centers 3z2g1w Technology News

Astronomers study light variations in galaxies to identify binary supermassive black holes 4w3u5a

Written by Gadgets 360 Staff | Updated: 3 January 2025 23:34 IST

Astronomers Seek Binary Supermassive Black Holes in Galactic Centers

Photo Credit: Pixabay/Kyraxys 464c45

Some black holes, bound by gravity, rotate around each other, as shown in this simulated image

Highlights

Binary black holes could form in merging galaxies
Light variations suggest binary black holes in PG 1553+153
Gravitational waves may confirm binary black hole systems

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Supermassive black holes are believed to exist at the centre of most galaxies, including our gravitationally bound pairs could provide significant insights into the dynamics of galaxy formation and the behaviour of space-time. Detecting them, however, presents challenges due to their nature, as they cannot be observed directly using traditional telescopes.

Gravitational Waves and Galactic Collisions 6lv3t

According to research, as black holes can form when galaxies merge. During such collisions, the black holes from the merging galaxies are brought closer by gravitational forces. Eventually, they may create a binary system before combining into one larger black hole over millions of years.

These systems emit gravitational waves, ripples in space-time predicted by Albert Einstein's theory of general relativity. Observatories like the Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory (LIGO) detect these waves, though pinpointing individual binaries remains elusive.

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Evidence from Active Galactic Nuclei 5h4d3k

Researchers have identified a potential binary black hole system in an active galaxy, PG 1553+153, as reported by The Conversation. Observations have revealed periodic light variations approximately every 2.2 years, which could indicate the presence of two orbiting black holes.

Active galactic nuclei, which emit immense energy due to gas accretion, often display such cyclical patterns. These patterns, however, might also result from other phenomena like jet wobbles, requiring further investigation.

Historical Data and Findings 414b41

As reported by The Conversation, they used archival data spanning over a century, a secondary 20-year light variation pattern was identified in PG 1553+153. This additional evidence s the binary black hole hypothesis, suggesting the system includes two black holes with masses in a 2.5:1 ratio. Final confirmation, however, may depend on advancements in pulsar timing arrays to detect specific gravitational waves.

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The study highlights how historical data and modern simulations contribute to understanding complex cosmic events. The findings advance knowledge of galactic evolution and black hole behaviour, with future technological improvements expected to refine these discoveries.

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