Could a black hole be hiding inside a neutron star?

In summary, the conversation discusses the possibility of some neutron stars having a black hole inside due to the stronger gravitational field near the center of mass. However, it is not true that the gravitational field gets stronger as you approach the center of mass, and the black hole's "surface" does not support weight. The neutron star would be destroyed and the black hole would gain mass in this scenario.
  • #1
James Minwell
9
1
Since gravity is stronger the closer you get to center mass, is it possible some neutron stars have a black hole inside?
 
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  • #2
James Minwell said:
Since gravity is stronger the closer you get to center mass, is it possible some neutron stars have a black hole inside?
No.

It is also not true that the gravitational field gets stronger the closer you get to the center of mass. The gravitational field at the centre of the Earth is zero.
 
  • #3
The black "surface" of a black hole is not a rigid surface that supports weight. There would be nothing "holding up" the neutron star around the black hole. The neutron star would be destroyed in a very spectacular fashion and the black hole would get a little more massive.
 
  • #4
ok, thanks!
 

Related to Could a black hole be hiding inside a neutron star?

1. What is a black hole and a neutron star?

A black hole is a region in space where the gravitational pull is so strong that nothing, including light, can escape from it. A neutron star is a small, extremely dense star made up of closely packed neutrons.

2. How could a black hole hide inside a neutron star?

A black hole could potentially form inside a neutron star if the star's core collapses under its own gravity. This could happen when a neutron star reaches the end of its lifespan and can no longer support its own mass.

3. Can a black hole be detected inside a neutron star?

It is currently not possible to directly detect a black hole inside a neutron star. However, scientists can infer the presence of a black hole by studying the effects of its gravity on the surrounding environment.

4. What would happen if a black hole formed inside a neutron star?

If a black hole were to form inside a neutron star, it would likely consume the star from the inside out, growing in size and strength. This process would release a tremendous amount of energy and could potentially lead to a supernova explosion.

5. Are there any known instances of a black hole hiding inside a neutron star?

There is currently no confirmed evidence of a black hole hiding inside a neutron star. However, scientists continue to study and search for potential instances of this phenomenon in the universe.

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