The Lucent Library of Science and Technology - Black Holes (The Lucent Library of Science and Technology)

The remains of collapsed stars, black holes possess enormous gravities that pull in and annihilate any matter that strays too close. The latest evidence and theories for these bizarre objects are presented in this intriguing book, including how black holes were first predicted, how they form, their physical properties, and how scientists detect them. Also covered are the giant black holes now known to lurk at the centers of most galaxies and the possibility of using these objects as cosmic gateways. Gravity and early predictions of black holes Dying stars and the formation of black holes Properties and potential uses of black holes Detecting black holes through indirect means Giant black holes and the fate of the universe Can black holes be used as cosmic gateways? Discusses the history and current state of scientific understanding of black holes, exploring what they are, how they are formed, potential uses, and what they tell us about the fate of the universe.