Black holes, cosmic objects of extreme density, exert a colossal gravitational pull on the universe. Their immense power can distort time and space, and interact violently with nearby stars. Recent research sheds light on the tragic fate of a star that gets too close to these giants.
The universe is the scene of phenomena of unimaginable magnitude, where matter and energy manifest themselves in extreme forms. Black holes, regions of spacetime with gravity so intense that even light cannot escape, shape the evolution of galaxies. The fate of a star approaching a supermassive black hole is an event of unprecedented violence, called Tidal Disruption Event (TDE). Until now, our observations were mainly limited to light emissions. However, advances in numerical simulation have made it possible to visualize this moment with unprecedented precision. These models offer a unique perspective on this spectacle that is both fascinating and truly terrifying.
These simulations reveal how a star is torn apart by a black hole
These simulations were reported by the media Caltech and based on two studies published in scientific journals. They reveal that the interaction of a black hole with a star generates colossal tidal forces. When the star crosses a critical limit, the gravity difference exerted on its sides becomes greater than its own. This phenomenon causes it to stretch and deform, a process described as an “egg-like rupture.”
The star is literally ripped apart: some of its matter is ejected at high speed, while the rest is sucked toward the black hole’s event horizon. This disintegration takes place in several phases, where the matter forms filaments before being engulfed or thrown out.
Beyond the external destruction, these simulations explored the star’s interior. They highlighted the formation of powerful shock waves and “starquakes” within the latter as they break up. These internal shocks, generated by the black hole's extreme gravitational force, influence how matter is torn apart and radiates energy. Understanding these seismic waves allows astronomers to better interpret the light signals observed after a TDE, with the aim of refining models of supermassive black holes and their impact on galactic environments.
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