Are singularities an infinitely large amount of matter

In summary, a singularity is a theoretical concept of any amount of matter contained within an infinitely small amount of space, as described by General Relativity and Quantum Gravity. The Planck length, which marks the boundary at which classical notions of gravity and space-time break down, may or may not have an upper limit to the size of a singularity. More research and understanding is needed in this area.
  • #1
Parsons
Are singularities an infinately large amount of matter within an infinately small amount of space or are they on a Planck scale?
:smile:
 
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  • #2
Theoretically, a singularity would be any amount of matter within an infinitely small amount of space.
 
  • #3
Yes they are
 
  • #4
Originally posted by LURCH
Theoretically, a singularity would be any amount of matter within an infinitely small amount of space.

how can a singularity be an infinetly small amount of space, when Planck Scale physics has a limit of size?
 
  • #5
how can a singularity be an infinetly small amount of space, when Planck Scale physics has a limit of size?
LURCH was speaking mathematically. You see as far as we know a singularity is a zero dimensional point, it has no width, breadth or height. This knowledge comes directly from the mathematical constructs of General Relativity, Einstein’s Theory of Gravity. The Planck length as you mention is the boundary length scale at which classical notions of gravity and space-time cease to be valid and beyond the Planck length quantum effects takeover. At this point we really can’t say whether or not a singularity actually has some upper limit to its size or has no size at all. Our accelerators have not yet been able to probe the energies near the Planck length. Thus the only assertion we can make about a singularity comes from General Relativity and field theories such as Quantum Gravity, which is still largely understood. So to answer your question, maybe it does have size, but then again it might not. At this point in time we really can’t say.
 

1. What is a singularity?

A singularity is a point in space where the laws of physics break down and traditional equations no longer apply. It is thought to be a point of infinite density and zero volume.

2. Are singularities real?

While there is strong evidence to suggest that they exist, we currently have no way of directly observing or measuring singularities. They are a theoretical concept in physics.

3. Are all singularities black holes?

No, not all singularities are black holes. Black holes are a type of singularity that occurs when a large amount of mass is compressed into a small space. However, there are other types of singularities, such as the Big Bang singularity.

4. Can anything escape a singularity?

According to current theories, nothing can escape from a singularity, not even light. This is because the gravity of a singularity is so strong that it warps space and time around it, making it impossible for anything to escape its grasp.

5. Are singularities dangerous?

While singularities are fascinating and play a crucial role in our understanding of the universe, they are not dangerous in the traditional sense. They only exist in extreme conditions, such as at the center of a black hole, and are not a threat to us on Earth.

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