Supermassive Black Holes from AU to Megaparsec - Fundamentally New Physics in Accretion Disks

Explore the groundbreaking developments in understanding supermassive black holes at the centers of galaxies in this astrophysics seminar. Delve into the theoretical challenges these cosmic giants pose for high-energy astrophysics, gravity, gravitational waves, star and galaxy formation, and space plasma physics. Discover how recent multi-physics, multi-scale simulations have revolutionized our comprehension of black hole formation and growth. Learn about the novel ability to track plasma radiation-magneto-thermo-chemistry from megaparsec scales down to horizon scales, challenging traditional accretion theory assumptions. Examine the newly discovered accretion modes and their implications for early Universe black hole seed growth, quasar behavior, black hole mergers, star formation around black holes, and the impact of their feedback on galactic environments. Gain insights into the fundamentally new physics of accretion disks and their far-reaching consequences in astrophysics.

Supermassive Black Holes from AU to Megaparsec: Fundamentally New Physics in.... - Philip Hopkins