Description
Book SynopsisRichly illustrated with the images from observatories on the ground and in space, and computer simulations, this book shows how black holes were discovered, and discusses what we''ve learned about their nature and their role in cosmic evolution. This thoroughly updated third edition covers new discoveries made in the past decade, including the discovery of gravitational waves from merging black holes and neutron stars, the first close-up images of the region near a black hole event horizon, and observations of debris from stars torn apart when they ventured too close to a supermassive black hole. Avoiding mathematics, the authors blend theoretical arguments with observational results to demonstrate how both have contributed to the subject. Clear, explanatory illustrations and photographs reveal the strange and amazing workings of our universe. The engaging style makes this book suitable for introductory undergraduate courses, amateur astronomers, and all readers interested in astronomy
Trade Review'Gravity's Fatal Attraction has masterfully enlightened two decades of my undergraduates with its spellbinding examination of the astrophysical roles of black holes in our cosmos – this updated edition, including the latest black-hole breakthroughs, will remain a peerless resource for years to come.' Niel Brandt, Pennsylvania State University
'In this singular book, Mitchell Begelman and Martin Rees lead us on a masterful tour of the mysterious physics, astronomical reality, and wonder of black holes.' Philip Armitage, Stony Brook University
'A remarkably readable and insightful exposition of nature's most exotic objects by two of the world's leading astrophysicists. This new edition brings the reader right up to the frontiers of the field, including discussions of the gravitational waves that we have now observed from merging black holes, as well as the remarkable advancements in event horizon imaging.' Christopher Reynolds, University of Cambridge
'Gravity's Fatal Attraction is an ideal book for those wanting to learn more about the fascinating physics of black holes and the Universe in a way that is technical rather than science fiction, but still readable and never condescending or needlessly mathematical.' Katie Sawers, Astronomy Now
Table of ContentsPreface to the Third Edition; 1. Gravity Triumphant; 2. Stars and Their Fates; 3. Black Holes in Our Backyard; 4. Galaxies and Their Nuclei; 5. Quasars and Kin; 6. Jets; 7. Blasts from the Past; 8. Black Holes in Hibernation; 9. Cosmic Feedback; 10. Postcards from the Edge; 11. Gravitational Waves; 12. Through the Horizon; Appendix: Gravity and Cosmic Dimensions; Further Reading; Index.
