Consider Again the Civilization Described in the Previous Question

question 89

Multiple Choice

Consider again the civilization described in the previous question. (They live on a planet orbiting 10 AU from a close binary star system that consists of a 15 MSᵤn red giant star and a 10 MSᵤn black hole surrounded by an accretion disk.) One foolhardy day, a daring individual in their space force (let's call him Major Tom) decides to become the first of his species to cross the event horizon of the black hole. To add to the drama, he decides to go in wearing only a thin space suit, which offers no shielding against radiation, no cushioning against any forces, and so on. Which of the following is most likely to kill him first (or at least to start the process of killing him first) ?

• A) X-rays from the accretion disk
• B) Tidal forces due to the black hole
• C) The crush of gravity at the singularity embedded within the black hole
• D) The sucking force from the black hole, which will cause his head to explode

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Definitions:

Disequilibrium

A state of imbalance or instability caused by a disruption in the usual or expected balance of forces, often mentioned in the context of economics or psychology.

Stage Models

Theoretical frameworks that describe the progression of individuals through distinct phases or stages over time, often used in psychology and development.

Assumptions

Implicit beliefs or statements taken to be true without proof, used as a basis for reasoning or conduct.

Incrementalist

An individual who advocates for or implements small, gradual changes or adjustments, especially in policy or strategy.