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Redshifts near black holes

Adam D Helfer

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A simple ordinary differential equation is derived governing the redshifts of wavefronts propagating through a non-stationary spherically symmetric space–time. Approach to an event horizon corresponds to approach to a fixed point; in general, the phase portrait of the equation illuminates the qualitative features of the geometry. In particular, the asymptotics of the redshift as the horizon is approached, a critical ingredient of Hawking's prediction of radiation from black holes, are easily brought out. This asymptotic behaviour has elements in common with the universal behaviour near phase transitions in statistical physics. The validity of the Unruh vacuum for the Hawking process can be understood in terms of this universality. The concept of surface gravity is extended to non-stationary spherically symmetric black holes. Finally, it is shown that in the non-stationary case, Hawking's predicted flux of radiation from a black hole would be modified.


PACS

04.70.Bw Classical black holes

05.70.Fh Phase transitions: general studies

02.30.Hq Ordinary differential equations

MSC

83C57 Black holes

82B26 Phase transitions (general)

Subjects

Mathematical physics

Gravitation and cosmology

Statistical physics and nonlinear systems

Dates

Issue 24 (21 December 2001)

Received 21 July 2001, in final form 16 October 2001

Published 5 December 2001



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