Chinese scientists from Peking University’s Institute of Astronomy and Astrophysics have proposed a method that will one day enable humanity to use black holes as an energy source. In this case, people will be able to charge these objects like batteries. The study was published in the scientific journal magazine Physical Examination D (PRD).
According to experts’ calculations, charging a black hole can theoretically be achieved by sending huge electrically charged particles into the black hole. These charges will be absorbed until an electric field is created in the hole that pushes new portions of matter.
According to scientists, the black hole converts approximately 25% of the mass given to it into usable energy. Such a source would produce approximately 250 times more energy than that released by the atomic bomb.
Researchers propose that the energy is extracted through a process known as superluminescence. It is based on the theory that some electromagnetic waves can escape from the gravitational field up to a certain point due to the rotation of the black hole.
Another method of exploiting black holes involves extracting this energy in the form of Schwinger pairs, or paired particles that form spontaneously in the presence of an electric field. If a black hole is fully charged, it will begin expelling streams of positrons that can then be collected as energy.
Although scientists’ suggestions remain just a theory, in the future humanity may find a way to use some of the most dangerous objects in the Universe to its advantage.
Formerly a physicist explainedHow black hole radiation can affect digital device processors.